French Polynesia

Abstract

This chapter summarises the available information on the physical and biological characteristics of the coral reefs and associated areas in French Polynesia. Reefs vary from almost pristine to heavily degraded, although the biological diversity of these relatively isolated reefs is low compared to reefs in the Western Pacific. The chapter then discusses the various anthropogenic factors impacting these reefs and how these are distributed within the region. Commercial uses of the coral reef resources are reviewed, as are the various management options being developed to manage and conserve them. However it is apparent that with a rapidly growing population, far more political will is needed in order to develop and manage these reefs, which are probably the best studied in the area.