) DURHAM UNIVERSITY CORAL AWARENESS AND RESEARCH EXPEDITION 2008

Durham University Coral Awareness and Research Expedition (DUCARE) Endorsed by

What is DUCARE? 5-year partnership with CDF! (2004–2008) Carry out reef check surveys in four areas of the Visayas – including Mactan! This helps determine the level of threat to the coral reef in your area. Raise Filipino awareness of the marine environment by presenting our findings to important people (you!). The Philippines is heavily dependant on the seas for food and other resources. Educate schoolchildren on the importance of respecting their coral reef, helping them appreciate the dangers of dynamite fishing, cyanide fishing, hunting endangered species and other human impacts.

DUCARE 2008 Aims Provide high-quality data on the health of the marine environment in your area. Assist in the development of Coastal Resource Management policies that prepare regions with a sustainable usage plan. Provide equipment for and assistance to new and existing sanctuaries. By surveying local communities, determine how effective the message of protection and preservation of the sea has been.

Kristofer Chan: Team Scientist Jessica Batchelor: Medical Officer Rose Janes: Grant Officer Robert Parson: Logistics Officer Florence Brockway: Education Officer David Murphy: Team Leader Charlotte Jones: Treasurer Rupert Carter: Fundraiser Juilitta Sofat: Fundraiser Tom Bohills: Grant Officer Meet the team….

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Over 600 MPA’s in the Philippines But less than 10% are managed efficiently

Reef check Started 1997 Largest international coral reef monitoring program involving recreational divers and marine scientists Aims: Overview of human impacts on coral reefs long-term monitoring Over 1500 trained volunteer divers are led by 160 scientists in surveys of 250 reefs Result compiled by comparing fish and invertebrate species and substrate types which are indicators of the health of the reef

Reef Check Methodology

Site selection Site description Transect laying Fish survey belt Invertebrate survey belt Substrate survey (point sampling)

Transect

Fish Indicator species

Invertebrate indicator species

Substrate categories

Reef Check Results