xBERMUDA

Abstract

Bermuda at 32°N supports the highest latitude coral reefs in the North Atlantic and one of the highest in the world. Algal–vermetid cup reefs, particularly well developed off the south shore of the island, represent an unusual reef type rarely found elsewhere in the world. While corals, the main reef builders, show lower diversity than the Caribbean, presumably in response to cool winter water temperatures, nevertheless the main physiographic zones of fore-reef slope, main terrace, rim, and lagoon all support thriving coral reefs which have as yet been little affected by coral bleaching or anthropogenic influences such as pollution and ship groundings. Only reefs in the inshore waters of Castle Harbour have suffered long-term deleterious effects from extensive dredging for airfield construction in 1941–1943. However, there is a need for stronger planning policies and better resource management in the whole area if the Bermuda reefs are to remain healthy and protected.