Macroinvertebrate diversity of Kg Tekek, Pulau Tioman Marine Park

Abstract

Recent development on Pulau Tioman has raised much serious discussion on the biodiversity of the area affected. A survey was conducted to evaluate the macro-invertebrates of the reefs adjacent to Kg Tekek. Sampling was conducted by using six 100 meter transect lines with a side range of 2.5 meter on each side. The survey has recorded 53 species of macro-invertebrates, which among them are the giants clams. Three species of the giant clams were recorded; Tridacna squamosa, Tridacna maxima and Tridacna crocea, which each is a protected organism in Malaysia. Eight species of holothuroids were also recorded, which include Stichopus chloronotus, that is highly valued in fisheries while Stichopus variegatus is famous for its medical value. The highest abundance was recorded by Diadema setosum with a mean density of 0.55 ind. m2. Higher density of D. setosum implicates that higher abundance of algaes is present in the area. Throughout the survey, several giant clams Tridacna maxima were found to be amazingly gigantic. This shows that the giant clams in Kg Tekek are really rare and possibly has reached a very old age. It is hoped that the data presented here can be used to create a suitable and efficient monitoring program for Pulau Tioman Marine Park