The coral reefs of Bazaruto Island, Mozambique, with recommendations for their management

Abstract

Coral collections and qualitative observations were made on the Bazaruto coral reefs in the Parque Nacional do Bazaruto. A checklist of species found on the reefs is presented with descriptions of their nature. Both the Alcyonacea and Scleractinia are well-represented on the reefs and their biodiversity is discussed in a regional context. The reefs constitute a valuable resource for ecotourism and recommendations are made for their sustainable use.