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Last updated: October 11, 2002
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Coral Reef Ecosystem Monitoring:
The Downstream Component
of the South Florida Restoration Effort
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Monitoring the coral reef ecosystem
before and after water management changes are made is an essential aspect
of determining the success of South Florida restoration.
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
contains the nation's largest network of no-take zones that are important
in distinguishing between natural and human disturbances.
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Importance
of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
- biodiversity ~ over 6000 species
- economic value
- tourism ~ over $1.2 billion yearly
- fisheries ~ over $57 million yearly
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(click on image above for larger version.)
- pollution
- overfishing
- water quality
- direct impacts
- physical damage
- global environment
These factors contribute to overall
coral health.
Coral condition is a good indicator of
ecosystem health.
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Next: Zone Monitoring Program
Disclaimer about non-USGS materials
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