New species found in Fiji's Great Sea Reef, WWF survey reveals
07 Nov 2005
Suva, Fiji - The first ever comprehensive survey of Fiji's largely uncharted Great Sea Reef, the world's third longest barrier reef, has revealed a staggering array of life, including a new species of reef fish.
The 12-day expedition recorded a new species of damselfish (Pomacentrus sp.), unique mangrove island habitats, several threatened species, including green turtles and spinner dolphins, as well marine life not previously recorded in Fiji's waters. This included 43 new records of known hard corals.
"The Great Sea Reef, locally known as Cakaulevu, is globally important in terms of its biodiversity" said Etika Rupeni, WWF-Fiji's Country Programme Manager. "Covering more than 200,000 sq km, the reef is home to thousands of marine species, many of them endemic and is an important fishing ground for local communities."
The survey, conducted by WWF with local and international experts and community members, also identified significant threats to the Great Sea Reef, including overfishing and poaching by illegal fishers, poison fishing, sand dredging and other development activities.
In recognition of the global importance of the Reef, the local chiefs are today launching the first of the country's networks of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) on the Great Sea Reef, which include permanent 'tabu' zones, where no fishing or harvesting of other marine resources can take place.
"The people of Macuata province are working closely with WWF and the Fiji Locally Managed Marine Areas network (FLMMA) to protect this unique marine environment." said Etika Rupeni. "Protecting the Great Sea Reef will ensure that one of our greatest assets remains intact and continues to be an important part of the traditions, culture and livelihoods of the people of Fiji."
The Great Sea Reef conservation effort delivers on Fiji's commitment to establish an MPA Network covering 30 per cent of the country's waters by 2020. Fiji's commitment to manage 380,000sq km (38.7 mil hectares) of its water as MPAs, will make it one of the largest MPA networks in the world.
WWF is this week presenting its Conservation Leadership Award to Fiji's government and the Fiji Locally Managed Marine Areas network (FLMMA), who will be acknowledged for their commitment and stewardship in the sustainable management of Fiji's natural resources.
For further information
Jacqueline McArthur, WWF Communications Manager - Media
Phone: 02 9281 5515
Mobile: 0408 626 780
