The Coral Triangle Center (CTC) and Department of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (DKP) of Maluku Province recently wrapped up an extensive coral reef health monitoring survey in the Lease Islands MPA, conducted from October 15-25, 2024. This collaboration aimed to assess coral reef health, gather insights into marine ecosystem resilience, and address the impacts of human activity and pollution on these vibrant underwater habitats.

The 14-person team comprised of representatives from CTC, DKP Maluku, Pattimura University students, the Kewang Negeri Haruku community, Negeri Mahu locals, and a dedicated women activist – Banda Islands’ Soraya Rahmad. Together, they conducted dives at 24 sites across the Lease Islands Marine Protected Area (MPA) and nearby control sites, including two significant “Sasi” areas on Haruku Island, currently under consideration for OECM (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures) status.

Equipped with underwater survey methods like Point Intercept Transect (PIT) and Underwater Photo Transect (UPT) for coral cover and Underwater Visual Census (UVC) for fish communities, the team meticulously recorded data across selected indicators of reef health. They also sampled sediment and algae to evaluate pollution levels, which will be analyzed further by INREEF Project’s PhD student Dea Lestari from IPB University and Wageningen University. Preliminary observations painted a generally healthy coral ecosystem, with a Live Hard Coral Cover (LHCC) averaging 42.3%—a slight dip from 2020’s 46.5%. The team found robust coral colors, minimal bleaching, and numerous large schools of fish.

However, the declining fish biomass (down to 1,034.99 kg/ha from 1,234.12 kg/ha in 2020) has affected the balance of the marine ecosystem, with a shortage of larger predators indicating increased fishing pressure. This imbalance can have a ripple effect, reducing biodiversity and weakening the reef’s natural resilience against stressors like disease and climate change.

Despite these challenges, there was exciting news: three sites—Abubu, Nalahia, and Oma—showed the highest resilience scores, while sites like Haruku Petuanan and Itawaka scored lower, highlighting the need for focused conservation efforts. Notably, a surprise encounter with a dugong in Saparua Bay uplifted spirits and underscored the unique biodiversity of these waters.

This annual, collaborative monitoring effort is a cornerstone of CTC’s approach to safeguarding the Lease Islands MPA. By gathering and analyzing data, we help shape effective conservation strategies together with local stakeholders that protect the marine environment, ensuring its resilience for future generations.

Writers: Asia Salsabilla, Purwanto
Photos: Kasman/CTC