GROUNDTRUTHING NOTES: NOWRAMP 2000 & 2002 FIELD SITES

From various ship cruises

(field surveys by Daria Siciliano, Jim Maragos, and Dave Gulko;
narratives by Jim Maragos and Dave Gulko)

Letter codes used in this report:

A=*American Islander* (ship)

AC=Andy Collins

AF=Alan Friedlander

AW=Aulani Wilhelm

B=Brian (UH dive safety officer)

BO=Bob Overlock

BM=Bill Mowatt

c=coral coring or collecting

D=Dave Gulko REA team (2000)

DB=Dave Boone

DS or DDD=Daria Siciliano

E=east

ED=Ed DeMartini

FAD=fish aggregation device

FFS=French Frigate Shoals

GAR=Gardner Pinnacles

GER=Geophysical Environmental Research Inc.

h=hyperspectral measurements

J=Jim Maragos REA team (2000)

JE=John Elder

JM= Jim Maragos

JW=Jim Watt

KA=Kaliko Among

KUR=Kure Atoll

LAY=Laysan Island

LIS=Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal

LP=Linda Preskitt

M=Mike May (videographer)

m=monitoring

MAR=Maro Reef

MID=Midway Atoll

MV=Marjo Vierros

N=north

NB=Noah Bailey

NEC=Necker Island

NIH=Nihoa Island

P&H=Pearl and Hermes Atoll

R=*Rapture* (ship)

RAI=Raita Bank

r=ground-truthing

S=south

SC=Steve Cotton

T=*Townsend Cromwell* (ship)

W=west

Table of Contents

French Frigate Shoals - pg. 2

Gardner Pinnacles

Kure Atoll

Laysan Island

Lisianski Island

Maro Reef

Midway Atoll

Necker Island

Nihoa Island

Pearl and Hermes Atoll - pg. 64

Raita Bank

# **FRENCH FRIGATE SHOALS**

# **FFS-RD-14** 9/23/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 38.984' N, 166^o^ 10.592' W

Location: Due west of Disappearing Island.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Backreef habitat dominated by massive *Porites lobata* and
> *Porites compressa* colonies with numerous sand channels.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 25 -- 40'.
>
> Coral: 50 -- 70% live coral cover. Abundant colonies of *A.cytherea*
> forming large tabletops; small colonies of *A. paniculata* forming
> small vase-like structures. Noted one large, extensive colony of
> tabletop *A. cytheria*. Collected branch tips of *A. paniculata* and
> *A. cytherea*. Found limited numbers of *Fungia scutaria* and
> *Pocillopora damicornis*.
>
> Other: Pesky 5' grey reef shark. Observed numerous *Chaetodon
> trifascialis* pairs associated with the tabletop *Acropora*. Large
> (\>50) school of jacks directly off the stern of the Rapture.

## FFS-RJ-15 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1523 hrs     23 38.531'N                   166 10.427'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, S fore reef, seaward of Disappearing Island,
depth 5 to 19 feet, 2 transects, 23 Sept 2000:*

The site consisted of the shallow fore reef flat fronting Disappearing
Island, with the substrate predominantly unconsolidated and poorly
sorted reef rubble deposits mixed with carbonate sediments. There was
considerable evidence of recent or chronic disturbance from large waves
striking the reef from offshore (south), and from waves refracting
around from the east. Several corals were broken and other overturned.
During the dive a two-knot current from the east hampered mobility and
restricted the area surveyed. Small breakers were striking the reef
crest that normally marks the seaward boundary of the islet. Moreover,
Disappearing Island has disappeared, at least for this season. Coral
abundance was low, less than 5% coral cover, belonging to 9 species.
Only *Pocillopora meandrina* was abundant at the site. Live corals were
concentrated on shallow rises and mounds amongst the rubble fields. Some
branching corals appeared to be killed by marine debris (fishing line)
that had snagged some corals.

# **FFS-RD-16** 9/24/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 38.109' N, 166^o^ 05.998' W

Location: Southeast outside portion of the atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Forereef habitat with sand deposits and carbonate pavement,
> rubble flats.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins.
>
> Depth: 35 -- 40'.
>
> Coral: 10 -- 20% live coral cover. Seventeen species of stony corals
> were observed plus a zoanthid.
>
> Other: Large number of live and dead turbo shells. White-tip reef
> sharks.

## 

## FFS-RJ-17 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1649 hrs     23 38.738'N                   166 10.468'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

### French Frigate Shoals, S shallow pass (hoa) and pool, just W of Disappearing Island, depth 5 to 20 feet, 9/23/00:

The site was located in the coral gardens west of Disappearing Island,
in a shallow channel and reef pool habitat. Thick rippled sand deposits
and large heads of the coral *Porites lobata,* dominated the bottom
habitats, and large diverse fish populations were present. The more
protected location of the site spared the corals from any noticeable
impact from recent storms and from the chronic disturbance of wave
action and scour that affected the adjacent site (FFS-15). Of interest
was the presence of two rare table coral species, *Acropora valida,* and
*A. cytherea*, observed in the gardens. The dominant corals on site are
mounds of *Porites lobata*, and rose corals (*Pocillopora meandrina).*
An unidentified species of a gorgonian fan coral (*Acabaria* ?) was also
collected. Coral coverage averaged about 50%, with individual coral
heads exceeding 90%, the highest of any sites surveyed to date. A total
of 13 species were reported. There was no sign of any anthropogenic
disturbance at the site.

# **FFS-RD-18** 9/24/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 43.744' N, 166^o^ 03.268' W

Location: Eastern outside portion of the atoll, due north of small
passage.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Reef crest habitat characterized by carbonate pavement with
> reef holes. Primarily coralline algal cover over pavement.
>
> Ecological Unit: Coralline algae.
>
> Depth: 15 -- 30'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Fifteen species of stony coral
> were documented along with two zoanthids and the soft coral,
> *Sinularia abrupta*. *Tubastraea coccinea* and *Balanophyllia* sp.
> were collected at this site. Most coral colonies were extremely small
> on the exposed pavement; larger colonies were found inside the reef
> holes and underhangs.
>
> Other: First two attempts at diving sites on this side of the atoll
> were aborted due to extremely strong currents. Numerous jacks observed
> at this site. Agitated white tip reef shark also observed. Numerous
> turbo shells.
>
> Note: Due to extremely strong surge, no transects were laid at this
> site, though video footage was shot.

## 

## FFS-RJ-19 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0910 hrs     23 37.963'N                   166 07.465'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

### French Frigate Shoals, ocean reef terrace, off a pronounced SE reef point, 2 transects, depth 19-26 feet, 9/24/00:

The proposed dive site off the ocean reef terrace was aborted due to a
3-knot current setting west. The bottom environment was flattened coral
rubble and interspersed sand, possibly from a recent storm, except for
very isolated large massive *Porites lobata* heads and *Acropora* table
coral*.* Hence we crossed through the reef crest and made our dive on
the shallow back reef next to a dislodged fisheries aggregation device
(FAD 3 "T") that had broken off at the chain and drifted over the reef
crest and into the lagoon. The substrate consisted of rubble deposits
overlaying reef and semi-consolidated by interstitial sand, coralline
algae and fleshy algae. Coral cover was low, about 10% and species
richness moderately low, 11 species. The small and uncommon coral
*Psammocora stellata* was frequently observed as small, contorted
encrustations. *Pocillopora meandrina* was the only common coral
species. Corals were more abundant on rises and other elevated surfaces.
The dislodged FAD was the only evidence of human disturbance at the
site.

# **FFS-RD-20** 9/24/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 50.036' N, 166^o^ 06.948' W

Location: Northern outside portion of the atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Forereef with sand channels, overhangs and holes. Carbonate
> pavement was covered with numerous small coral colonies.
>
> Depth: 35 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: Less than 15% live coral cover. Nineteen stony corals observed,
> plus a zoanthid and *Acabaria bicolor*, a gorgonian. *Leptoseris
> incrustans* and *Montipora studeri* were observed at this site.
>
> Other: Scott observed numerous Triton's trumpets, including one
> feeding on an *Acanthaster planci*. Collector urchins (*Tripneustes
> gratilla*) noted out in the open. High number of Rock-boring urchins.
> Large amount of jacks which circled the divers. Grey reef shark
> started to harass diver; end of dive saw up to 10 grey reef sharks
> encircling diver underneath the tender boat.
>
> Note: On digital video for this site, incorrectly listed (by hand
> signal) as site #18.

## FFS-RJ-21 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1223 hrs     23° 42.937'N                  166 03.452'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, E ocean reef terrace, near S wall of pass, 2
transects, depth 19-28 feet, 9/24/00:*

This site was very similar to the previous site, except a 2 knot current
from the east hampered movement during the dive. Bottom was low relief,
generally flat, and covered with semi-consolidated rubble, sand and
coralline and fleshy algae. The site, as with two of the previous ones,
appeared to be impacted by heavy waves or storm activity in the recent
past. Small crevices and holes served as refugia for corals and
seaweeds. Small coral heads were concentrated on the tops of mounds and
rises. Small young buds of table coral (*Acropora cytherea)* were
observed, evidence of recovery from a previous episode of storm or wave
damage. Overall coral cover was low (10%) and species richness was low
(11 species). An unusual *Pocillopora* colony resembling *P. elegans*
was observed and photographed. Crown-of-thorns starfish (*Acanthaster*)
feeding scars were evident on some rose corals. There was no sign of any
human disturbance.

# **FFS-RD-22** 9/25/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 52.121' N, 166^o^ 18.412' W

Location: North western outside portion of the atoll; west of Tern islet
and northeast of Shark islet.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Forereef with rubble, sand channels, overhangs and holes.
> Reef was covered with numerous small coral colonies.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 35 -- 50'.
>
> Coral: 20 - 30% live coral cover; dominated by *Porites lobata*.
> Thirteen stony corals observed, plus the zoanthid *Palythoa
> tuberculosa*. *P. lobata* often appeared as small colonies growing
> atop large massive dead colonies of *P. lobata*. Number of large
> *Acropora cytheria* tabletop corals growing directly adjacent to the
> substrate; these corals were found outside of the transects.
>
> Other: Large moray eel off transect.
>
> Note: Prior to initiating diving at this site, the team spotted what
> appeared to be a FAD buoy offshore. Further investigation showed the
> item to be a State of Hawai'i FAD buoy, #M, different from the State
> of Hawai'i FAD buoy, #T observed inside the eastern portion of the
> lagoon on 9/24/00. FAD buoy appeared to have a broken light stem and a
> slight dent on one side. GPS taken by the team for Buoy #M on 9/25/00
> was 23^o^ 52.191' N, 166^o^ 18.583' W.

## FFS-RJ-23 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1643 hrs     23° 49.845'N                  166 49.845'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

### French Frigate Shoals, NE ocean reef terrace, near top of deep slope, 2 transects, depth 35-50 feet, 9/24/00:

This was the final dive off the eastern ocean reef terrace of French
Frigate Shoals. The reef bottom was consolidated pavement, with shallow
sand and rubble deposits in depressions and sand chutes. The reef
appeared heavily scoured. Site was near the outer edge of the reef
terrace, near the top of the deep reef slope, a zone of high coral and
fish diversity. Despite previous storm or wave impacts, the structure of
the reef is intact with several microhabitats: potholes, channels, small
caves, overhangs, and ledges. *Echinostrephus* bore holes in the reef
were common. Many of the rare species were concentrated on elevated
surfaces, above the brunt of the scouring effects of wave action and
sediments in suspension. The corals included the mushroom coral (*Fungia
scutaria*), and the small encrusting brain coral, *Cyphastrea ocellina.*
Coral cover averaged about 10 to 15%, and the total observed species was
17. The site appeared pristine without any sign of human disturbance.

# **FFS-RD-24** 9/25/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 51.680' N, 166^o^ 17.979' W

Location: Northwestern portion of the atoll; west of Tern islet and east
of Shark islet.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Back reef habitat just inside of reef crest. Reef pass.
> Numerous sand channels, overhangs and holes. Live coral was growing
> atop loose rubble and dead corals.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites* and *Pavona*.
>
> Depth: 20 -- 35'.
>
> Coral: 30 -- 40% live coral cover. Eighteen stony corals observed,
> plus the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa.* Habitat was often
> characterized by either *Porites lobata* patches or large *Pavona
> duerdeni* colonies. *Acropora* colonies observed were all small, no
> tabletops. Found a single specimen of *Montipora tuberculosa.*
>
> Other: Numerous turbo shells and moray eels. Strong tidal current
> coming in through the pass. Pair of Reticulated Butterflyfish.

## 

## FFS-RJ-25 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0910 hrs     23° 51.614'N                  166 19.523'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

French Frigate Shoals, N end of perimeter reef, W of Shark Is.,
spur-and-grooves, 2 transects, depth 19-32 feet, 9/25/00:

The site consisted of a double-ended spur-and-groove reef system at the
extreme west end of the perimeter reef at the N end of the atoll. The
grooves were wide (10-15 ft) and filled with sand at depths of about 30
feet, and the spurs were massive and 15 ft high with the tops at about
15 feet. Surge from NW swells were breaking off the west end of the
reef, and there was evidence of severe scour on the bottom. Coral cover
was moderately high, averaging 33% overall, and about 50% on hard
surfaces. Coral diversity was also high at 21 species, including three
*Acropora* species: the large flat table coral *A. cytherea,* and two
small robust tables, *A gemmifera* and *A. humilis.* The soft coral
*Palythoa* was unusually abundant. Other abundant species were robust
adapted forms: *Pavona duerdeni* and the rose coral *Pocillopora
meandrina.* A rare species *Montipora studeri* was common and forming
large branching heads, unlike the small clumps characteristic of this
species in the main Hawaiian Islands. Overall *Porites lobata* dominated
the corals, forming expansive green sheets over the upper surfaces of
the spurs and large heads. The habitat complexity of the site
contributed to a corresponding abundant and diverse fish community.
There was no evidence of human disturbance or impact.

# **FFS-RD-26** 9/25/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 49.292' N, 166^o^ 14.924' W

Location: Western-most portion of the lagoon.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Lagoon pinnacle with sand channels, overhangs and holes. Reef
> was covered with numerous small coral colonies and rubble. Lots of
> bivalves mixed in with reef community.
>
> Depth: 35 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: 15 - 25% live coral cover. Fourteen stony corals observed, plus
> a zoanthid and *Acabaria bicolor*, a gorgonian. Noticable amounts of
> dead *P. meandrina* colonies.
>
> Other: Spotted two live pearl oysters (*Pinctada margaritifera*) and
> large mats of Chaetopterid worms underneath overhangs. Grey reef shark
> showed intense interest in the dive team and the tender just prior to
> initiation of diving activities.
>
> Note: Conditions at the site may be indicative of periods of prolonged
> sediment suspension: worm mats, large numbers of bivavles, numerous
> dead upright coral colonies.
>
> Poor visibility at the time of the dive.

**FFS-RJ-27** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1128 hrs     23° 50.907'N                  166 17.215'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, NW lagoon pinnacle, 2 transects, depth 5-27
feet, 9/25/00:*

The site is located south of Tern Island in the western half of the
northern lagoon, and consisted of a shallow lagoon pinnacle reef with
substantial habitat complexity. The top of the pinnacle reached within 7
feet of the surface and was dominated by crustose coralline algae.
Swells became steep over the pinnacle when large sets crossed it, and
the largest waves would break on it. Sand, rubble, and shifting sand
comprise much of the bottom surfaces, and are all evidence of the
chronic wave and sediment scour at the site. The middle depths of the
pinnacle consisted of sloping and horizontal carbonate surfaces
dominated by lobe coral (*Porites lobata)* and rose coral *(Pocillopora
meandrina).* The base of the pinnacle was surrounded by thick sand
deposits with large, wide ripples. Platforms of fingercoral (*Porites
compressa)* formed a skirt around the base of the pinnacle. Coral
abundance was high, averaging 50% cover, and coral diversity was very
high, including 3 table corals (*Acropora)*, 5 species of *Montipora,*
and 4 each of *Pocillopora* and *Porites.* A total of 23 species of
corals were recorded at the site. One of the table corals, *A.
cerealis,* is a new record for Hawaii, and one of the *Porites* (*cf P.
hawaiiensis*) is a rare unidentified species. Fish, marine algae, and
invertebrates all displayed high diversity and abundance at the site.
There was no evidence of anthropogenic disturbance.

# **FFS-RD-28** 9/26/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 46.057' N, 166^o^ 15.882' W

Location: La Perrouse Pinnacle, south side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Coral-covered bench with sand channels, holes and overhangs.
> Primarily *Porites* and *Acropora* cover.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Acropora* and *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 50 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: High coral cover (50 -- 60%). Documented twenty-two species of
> stony coral, along with a zoanthid and the gorgonian, *Acabaria
> bicolor*. Coral cover was dominated by *Porites lobata*; *P.
> compressa* and *A. cytheria* were abundant. Counted more than
> twenty-five large tabletop *Acropora cytheria*. Collected specimens of
> *Psammocora nierstraszi*, which was found as a single large colony out
> in the open.
>
> Other: Wonderful dive site with high coral diversity. Lots of juvenile
> fish and a large school of juvenile parrotfish. A number of large
> Peacock Groupers (Roi) were found around the overhangs. Juvenile *C.
> trifascilais* around a number of the tabletop *A. cytheria*.

**FFS-RJ-29** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1512 hrs     23° 50.214'N                  166 15.961'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, N lagoon pinnacle, 2 transects, depth 13-32
feet, 9/25/00:*

The site is located SE of Tern Island, in the north central lagoon, and
consists of a pinnacle reef which was detected from the skiff due to
wave action and swells passing over it. Water visibility at the time was
moderately poor (30 feet). In many was the pinnacle was similar to the
previous site in terms of high coral species abundance (25%) and
diversity, and high abundance and diversity for the other surveyed reef
life. The structure of the pinnacle was also very similar: hard
coralline algal dominated substrates in the shallow surge zone, lobe
coral forming sheets and heads at intermediate depths, and finger coral
and sand, and to a lesser extent rubble deposits at the base of the
pinnacle. Five species of table coral (*Acropora*), 5 species of
*Porites*, and 4 species each of *Montipora* and *Pocillopora* were
reported*.* A total of 26 species of corals were recorded, the highest
of any site during the survey. Lobe coral (*Porites lobata*) continues
to dominate the coral community, with finger coral (*Porites compressa)*
and rose coral (*Pocillopora meandrina)* also abundant*.* One
crown-of-thorns starfish (*Acanthaster)* was observed feeding on coral.
There was no evidence of anthropogenic disturbance.

# **FFS-RD-30** 9/26/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 46.38' N, 166^o^ 11.938' W

Location: Mid outside lagoon (west side), south of East Islet.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Patch reef with overhangs, caves and holes. Bottom and lowest
> portion of reef slope characterized as primarily *Halimeda* with turf
> algal cover. Primarily surveyed reef slope which included both live
> and dead corals, calcareous algae and an amazing amount of ark shells
> and the cliff oyster, *Spondylus* sp.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Halimeda*, *Porites*, Bivalves (*Arka* and
> *Spondylus*).
>
> Depth: 10 -- 35'.
>
> Coral: 15 - 25% live coral cover. Twenty species of stony corals were
> noted at this site. *Porites lobata* and *Pocillopora damicornis* were
> the most abundant coral species. Collected a sample of *Leptoseris
> scabra*, also noted three separate colonies of *Psammocora
> nierstraszi*. A surprising amount of living coral was found growing
> atop living ark shells, *Arca ventricosa*. Large amount (greater than
> twelve) of dead *Pocillopora meandrina* colonies noted during dive
> near top of reef slope.
>
> Other: Found a live pearl oyster, *Pinctada margaritifera*, numerous
> large jacks*.*.

**FFS-RJ-31** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0909 hrs     23° 46.280'N                  166 15.737'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, lagoon reef slope, La Perouse Pinnacle, 2
transects, depth 35-44 feet, 9/27/00:*

The site is located about 300m off the north side of La Perouse Pinnacle
at a transition zone where the lagoon deepens to the west. The pinnacle
is a basalt sea stack and only visible remnant of the volcano upon which
the atoll formed millions of years ago. The reef at the site gradually
sloped downwards from 30 to 45 feet where an expansive sand deposit
extended indefinitely to the west. Fish and coral abundance and
diversity were spectacular on the reef slope with dozens of large table
corals (*Acropora spp*), and massive heads and sheets of lobe and finger
coral (*Porites spp*) and branching *Pocillopora* corals. Live coral
cover averaged 80% on the reef, the highest of any site surveyed at the
atoll to date, and 17 species of corals were recorded at the site. Sand
channels bisected the elongate buttresses of the reef, with table corals
contributing to the numerous overhangs, nooks and crannies of the reef.
The exceptional habitat complexity of the reef contributed to the high
diversity of fish and other reef life at the site. However, bulbous
white tumors were found on the upper surface of a few *Montipora patula*
heads that were photographed and videoed. Evidence of *Acanthaster*
predation on rose coral was evident and photographed. A large manta ray
circled the base of the reef. No anthropogenic disturbance was noted.

# **FFS-RD-32** 9/26/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 45.844' N, 166^o^ 10.143' W

Location: Large linear reef (a couple miles long) in the middle of the
lagoon, running from north to south.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Large structural reef with overhangs, caves and holes. Bottom
> of reef slope often contained large mats of *Halimeda* with turf algal
> cover. Primarily surveyed reef slope which included both live and dead
> corals, calcareous algae and ark shells.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*,*Halimeda* and *Arka*.
>
> Depth: 10 -- 25'.
>
> Coral: Roughly 30% live coral cover. Eighteen species of stony corals
> were noted. *Porites lobata* and *P. compressa* were the most abundant
> corals found at this site. A single colony each of *Psammacora
> nierstaszi* and *P. stellata* were also noted.
>
> Other: As with FFS-RD-26, noted chaetopterid worm mats inside a number
> of the caves and under overhangs. Spotted a large number of
> saccoglossan opisthobranchs on the bottom near the *Halimeda* and in
> many of the small sand holes at the base of coral heads. Numerous
> parrotfish. Large schools of Nenue and Unicorn surgeonfish.

**FFS-RJ-33** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1141 hrs     23° 46.519'N                  166 12.343'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, central lagoon patch reef, S of East Island, 2
transects, depth 5-31 feet, 9/26/00:*

The site is located about 2 km south of East Island, in the central
lagoon of the atoll, and consisted of a small patch reef in shallow
water. The top of the reef was domed with a veneer of coralline algal
pavement and subjected to breaking waves and surge from swells
traversing the lagoon from the NW. The upper slopes of the patch reef to
depths of 5m were vertical with numerous overhangs and caves. Of
interest were the large colonies of the otherwise rare encrusting coral
*Psammocora nierstraszi* that were concentrated on the vertical walls
and overhangs, especially in the shade. Below a depth of 5m the slopes
of the reef fan out as a gradual talus slope of semi-consolidated rubble
and sand. In still deeper water the sediment deposits consist of mostly
finer sands. Another unusually abundant coral was the star coral
*Cyphastrea ocellina* that formed small clumps concentrated on the upper
edges of the overhangs. *Porites* *lobata* was the dominant species of
coral, forming expansive mats, massive heads, and contributing the bulk
of the consolidated hard reef structure. Coral cover approached 50% in
shallow water where water motion helps to keep the reef surface
relatively free of sediments. Coral cover dropped to about 30% in deeper
water, and many corals, especially *P. lobata,* showed dead lesions. A
total of 15 species of corals were reported at the reef. The sediment
stress is natural, and no anthropogenic stress to the reef was detected.

# **FFS-RD-34** 9/27/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 39.654' N, 166^o^ 15.066' W

Location: Due south of La Perrouse Pinnacle about 5 miles.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Coral reef bench dominated by *Porites lobata* and *Acropora
> cytheria*. Numerous sand channels, rubble and large, massive heads of
> coral.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Acropora* and *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 50 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: 50 -- 60% live coral cover. Documented fifteen species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Noted *Acropora
> nasuta* at this site in addition to the extremely large amount of *A.
> cytheria*. Large number of tabletop *A. cytheria*, some of which were
> over 8 m along their longest axis. Also noted some large, solitary
> heads of *Porites lobata* greater than 2 m in diameter. Collected and
> videotaped an unusual specimen of *Balanophyllia* sp. which was
> iridescent reddish-orange under water at 50'.

Other: As with a number of other sites, the divers were constantly
shadowed by three or four large jacks. Spotted a number of large
slingjaw wrasses associated with some of the undercuts beneath some of
the larger coral colonies. Large school of Convict Tangs (*Acanthurus
strigosus*). A number of Peacock Grouper (Roi) were also spotted.

**FFS-RJ-35** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1504 hrs     23° 47.322'N                  166 10.886'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, east central lagoon patch reef, E of East
Island, 2 transects, depth 1-19 feet, 9/26/00:*

This site is located about 6 km east of East Island in the shallower
eastern lagoon of the atoll. Skirting the base of the patch reef were
thick deposits of sand mixed with rubble. At the time of the dive
(mid-afternoon), the reef top approached within 2 feet of the sea
surface and was dominated by pavement-like crustose coralline algae. The
brown algae *Lobophora* formed encrusting mats over many reef surfaces,
and *Halimeda* was a conspicuous component of the substrates on the
slopes of the pinnacle. Water clarity was reduced from suspension of
fine particulate carbonates. Much of the coral was stressed by
sediments, and live coral coverage was reduced to about 10%. The living
portion of the patch reef extended from the crest down slope to a depth
of 3m. Unusually abundant was the finely branched coral, *Pocillopora
damicornis*, and small bosses of the star brain coral, *Cyphastrea
ocellina.* The dominant coral species, as at most other sites at the
atoll, is *Porites lobata.* Tiny clumps of the coral *Psammocora
stellata* were inconspicuous members of the coral fauna. A total of only
10 coral species were reported during the survey*.* No sign of
anthropogenic stress was observed during the survey.

# 

# **FFS-RD-36** 9/27/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 39.554' N, 166^o^ 12.481' W

Location: Due southwest of East Islet.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Outside lagoon. Sand and gravel flats interspersed with
> reticulated reefs and independent, large, massive heads of *Porites
> lobata*.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Acropora* and *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 30 -- 45'.
>
> Coral: 30 -- 40% live coral cover. Dominated by *P. lobata* and
> abundant *Acropora cytheria*. Many of the *A. cytheria* were large
> tabletop forms. Collected a specimen of *Pavona maldivensis*. A number
> of the large massive *P. lobata* heads and the large tabletop *A.
> cytheria* colonies appeared to be dead.

Other: Large school of *Chromis ovalis* in vicinity of massive coral
heads. Juvenile *C. trifascilais* around a number of the tabletop *A.
cytheria*. *L. phthirophagus* cleaning stations.

**FFS-RJ-37** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0946 hrs     23° 39.166'N                  166 13.225'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, reef mounds and platforms, SW end of perimeter
reef, 2 transects*, *depth 30-40 feet, 9/27/00:*

This site is located at the southwest extremity of the perimeter reef of
the atoll in a series of low coral mounds and platforms surrounded by
broad expanses of rippled sand deposits. The sand ripples averaged

45-60 cm between crests. Visibility was exceptional (200 feet), and
periodically swells would traverse the site, stirring up sand on the
bottom and bathing the coral formations in billowing clouds of suspended
sediments. The sediments would take several minutes to settle out before
the next set of large swells would approach from the NW. Nonetheless,
corals achieved an average of 75% live coverage on the mounds and
platforms, with little noticeable evidence of sediment stress. The
dominant coral was *Porites lobata,* with *P. compressa,* *P.
evermanni,* and *Pocillopora meandrina* also achieving abundance. Twelve
species of coral including one soft coral were reported at the site. The
platforms and mounds were raised about 60 cm above the surrounding sand
deposits. Large fish schools with high species diversity were confined
to the coral mounds and platforms. There was no evidence of any
anthropogenic stress at the site.

# **FFS-RD-38** 9/27/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 40.472' N, 166^o^ 09.959' W

Location: Inside (east-side) portion of linear reef on the southern end
of the lagoon. Linear reef ran from north to south and extended for
about a mile.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Large structural reef with overhangs, caves and holes.
> Directly adjacent to the reef were sand and rubble flats with
> occasional rubble mounds, many of which contained live coral colonies.
>
> Ecological Unit: Calcareous algae and *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 5 -- 25'.
>
> Coral: 5 -- 15% live coral cover. *Porites lobata* was the most
> abundant species. *Pavona duerdeni* was common and was found growing
> all the way up the reef face to the crest of the reef along with *P.
> lobata*.
>
> Other: A number of large Nenue (*Kyphosus vagiensis*) right near the
> reef crest. Spotted a large Triton's Trumpet (*Charonia tritonis*)
> moving through one of the holes in the reef. A number of the coral
> heads had encrusted pieces of cargo net entangled in them. One large
> section (greater than 5 m) of cargo net was found completely enmeshed
> within a section of the reef face.
>
> Note: Poor visibility.

**FFS-RJ-39 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1153 hrs     23° 42.556'N                  166 12.148'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, deep patch reef, S lagoon, 2 transects, depth
10-57 feet,9/27/00:*

The site was located in the central south lagoon where the lagoon floor
averages 10 or more fathoms in depth. Water visibility was poor (3-4m)
and a strong 2 knot current was setting from the east. Large NW swells
would approach the patch reef and break on its crest, which was
dominated by pavement-like crustose coralline algae. The green alga
*Halimeda* was a major sediment contributor and component of the reef
benthos. The lobe coral *Porites lobata* dominated the bottom cover
around the upper margin of the crest and shallow slopes of the patch
reef. At greater depths (10-15m) the finger coral achieved dominance
down to the base of the reef. Semi- consolidated sand and rubble
deposits dominated the substrates beyond the reef in all directions. The
combination of suspended sediments, strong currents and wave action may
be stressful to the corals as there were many dead areas or "lesions" of
dead tissue within large coral heads and platforms. *Porites lobata*
continued to be abundant on all coral habitats on the reef, and the
table coral *Acropora cytherea,* the rose coral *Pocillopora meandrina,*
and the encrusting corals *Montipora patula* and *M. capitata* also
achieved abundance. Coral cover averaged about 60% on the reef, and 11
species were reported. Large fish schools were present during the
survey. There were no sign of anthropogenic stress on the reef at the
site.

***FFS-RJ-41** Jim Maragos*

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1543 hrs     23° 41.481'N                  166 09.575'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, shallow lagoon patch reef, SE lagoon, depth 2-31
feet, no transects, 9/27/00:*

The site is situated in the SE corner of the lagoon where the lagoon
floor is generally less than 5 fathoms in depth. The reef itself was not
typically circular, but rather a linear segment of a long reticulate
reef unit stretching along a north-south access in the SE lagoon. Water
visibility was extremely limited at the time of our survey, to less than
3m, and was generated by very fine particles of carbonate sediments in a
state on constant suspension, Waves were breaking on the crest of the
reef, and strong ripping currents were passing around both ends of the
reef from the east. The skiff was anchored in the lee of the reef,
allowing safe approach to the reef slope. Despite the unfavorable
condition live coral accounted for about 30%of the substrate, and 11
species of corals were reported. The crest of the reef was covered with
pavement-like coralline algae, while the slopes were dominated by dead
coral, lobe coral (*Porites lobata*), and to a lesser extent, finger
coral (*P. compressa*) at greater depths. The floor of the lagoon around
the reef was dominated by semi-consolidated flat accumulations of rubble
and sand mixtures. Other abundant coral species were the finely
branching *Pocillopora damicornis,* the disk coral *Pavona duedeni,* and
the encrusting coral *Montipora patula.* The rose coral (*Pocillopora
meandrina)* was surprising less abundant compared to other sites
although common near the base of the reef on elevated surfaces. Other
corals more abundant than "usual" were *Cyphastrea ocellina, Leptastrea
purpurea,* and the usually rare *Montipora studeri.* Herbivorous fish
schools were observed along the flanks of the reef. There were no signs
of any anthropogenic stress at the site.

**FFS-H6** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Site H6 (historic NMFS fish survey site), NE of Tern Island, north
ocean reef slope, 9-13-01, depths of 7-13m. (JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage).
GPS: 23° 52' 47.8" N, 166° 16' 23.6" W*

Reef consisted with very massive spurs and grooves, of an average width
each of 10-20m and an average relief of 5-10m. Floors of broad grooves
were covered mostly with shifting and rippled white sand deposits, and
the floors of narrow grooves were mostly fine rills with gravel deposits
if any. Tops of spurs in shallow water were covered by crustose
coralline algae mixed with fine turf algae and live coral, with the last
averaging 33% cover, dominated by sheets of *Porites lobata.* Other
common corals included *Pocillopora meandrina* & *P. ligulata.* Coral
cover increased to more than 50% at depths below 12m suggesting that
wave action and scour limit coral growth in shallow water. A total of 14
species of corals were reported including the soft zoanthid *Palythoa
tuberculosa.* Two 25m video transects were run perpendicular to the
permanent transect established at this site in July 2001. Two of the
stainless steel stakes were noted within 5m of the present transects.
Corals were healthy with only a few *Acanthaster* feeding scars
observed. Sixteen reflectance signatures were captured with the GER
spectroradiometer. Substrate reading collected included: *P. lobata*,
*A. humilis*, carbonate pavement (colonized by turf algae), *P.
meandrina*, fine sand deposits found at the bottom of grooves. Readings
were taken at approximately 45° angle, facing away from the sun.
Visibility was fair, approximately 11m.

**FFS-H7** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Site H7 (historic NMFS fish suvey site), SW of Tern Island, NW shallow
lagoon, 9-13-01, depths of 5-8m. (JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage). GPS: 23° 51'
10.4" N, 166°17' 53.0" W*

Reef consisted of lagoon floor at 7-8m covered in rubble gravels and
sand deposits with little coral cover but with fleshy algae in drifts or
epiphytic on rubble and dead coral. Coral pinnacles averaging 10m to 25m
in diameter were scattered over the floor of the lagoon, covering about
50% of the total bottom. Some pinnacles were nothing more that shallow
mounds but others reached to within 1-2m of the sea surface. Some of the
pinnacles were contorted and covered with a mixture of crustose
coralline algae mixed in with ephiphytes and other fleshy algae. Live
coral was concentrated at mid depth or close to the bottom, but elevated
above the surrounding sediment-dominated floor. Most corals were sheets
of *Porites lobata* interspersed with low profile platforms of *P.
compressa,* and small heads of *P. evermanni.* The rose corals
*Pocillopora spp* were also common. Bathymetric relief was high at the
site, adding to the complexity of habitats. Schools of convict tang were
roving over the crests of the shallower reefs. Visibility was moderate,
about 15m, coral diversity was moderate, 14 species, and coral coverage
was also moderate, about 20 to 25 %. One small core of *Porites
evermanni* was acquired at the site, but was fractured and in poor
shape, and with a short total length of about 11 cm. This core was the
first attempt at retrieving a core with the new ½ inch drill and the new
coring barrels. The first stage regulator was not regulating properly,
possibly delivering a much higher pressure to the pressure hose, which
caused it to rapture in a small explosion. The first stage and the hose
are being fixed. A total of 9 reflectance signatures were collected with
the GER, including different species of *Acropora* and various crustose
coralline algae. Visibility was moderate to good, approximately 17-18m.

**FFS-H8** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Site H8 (historic NMFS fish survey site) E of Tern island and S of Trig
island in the N shallow lagoon, 9-13-01, 2-7m. (JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage).
GPS: 23° 51.291' N, 166° 16.149 W*

Reef consisted of scattered pinnacles and consolidated patch reefs near
the transition between shallow and medium depths within the north
lagoon. Water visibility was about 10-12m, and currents and wave action
were slight. The shallow reefs appear to be elongated and possibly
forming a linear reef so common elsewhere along the lagoon perimeter in
the transition zone between shallow and mid depths. Site characterized
by much relief, with shallow reef flats and crests dominated by crustose
coralline algae mixed in with fuzzy and fleshy algae, mid depths where
corals were diverse and dominant, and the floor of the lagoon consisting
mostly of sand patches or tracts of rubble. Although transects were
laid, the video camera battery was dead, and video footage was not
possible. A total of 13 species of corals were noted including several
*Porites (P. lobata, P. evermanni, P. compressa,* and *P. brighami)* and
*Pocillopora (P. meandrina, P. ligulata, P. eydouxi, P. damicornis,* and
*P. capitata.* Also *Montipora spp* was very common along with
*Cyphastrea.* Coral coverage averaged about 25% at the site. No cores
taken.

## FFS-H23 Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

## *Site H23 (historic NMFS fish survey site) S of Whale Skate in the N shallow lagoon, 9-14-01, 2-7m. (JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage, & fish team ED, AF, SC). GPS: 23° 51.233' N, 166° 13.337'W*

Reef consisted of a small coral pinnacle (20m diameter) surrounded by
fine sand (dominant) and gravel deposits on the shallow platform of the
north lagoon floor. The pinnacle was one of many and typical for the
large north lagoon area, with pinnacles accounting for less than 25% of
the bottom, the rest sand and gravel. Live coral cover was high on the
pinnacle, consisting mostly of *Porites spp (P. compressa, P. lobata, P.
evermanni)* averaging more than 85% live coral cover. The rose corals
(*Pocillopora spp)* were the only other common species*.* The three fish
transects at the site were shorter than normal (\~20m) and so video
benthic transects were accomplished at all three sites. A total of nine
coral species were reported at the pinnacle. Bathymetric relief on the
pinnacle was high and varied, including overhangs, walls, holes and
crests. There were unusual blotches of dying or sick *Porites evermanni*
coral heads that were otherwise healthy. The cause of the blotches is
unknown, but could be attributed to *Phestella* nudibranch predation.
Numerous GER readings of the coral species and sand collected.

**FFS-H5** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Site H5 (historic NMFS fish survey site) W of the former Whale Skate
Island, in the N shallow lagoon, 9-14-01, 1-7m. (JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage,
& fish team ED, AF, SC). GPS: 23° 51.657'N, 166° 13.691' W

Reef geomorphology and coral community characteristics were nearly
identical to the previous site (H23) except that coral cover was
slightly higher (greater than 90%) and the pinnacle slightly smaller.
Again the three fish transects were small and so video benthic transects
were established at all three. GER readings collected.

**FFS-H5D** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Site H5D (historic NMFS fish survey site) west of the former Whale Skate
Island, in the N shallow lagoon of French Frigate Shoals, 9-14-01, 1-6m.
(JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage, & fish team ED, AF, SC). GPS: 23° 51.747' N,
166° 13.787'W

Because this site is so similar to the previous two (H23, H5) is is
briefly described here out of order (accomplished after T15 during 14
September 2001). Again, coral community characteristics and reef
geomorphology were nearly identical to those of H23 and H5. Both fish
transects at the site, each about 15m in length were resurveyed using
benthic video procedures. The pinnacle was the smallest of the three
surveyed although the coral abundance and species richness were the
same. No GER readings taken at this site.

**FFS-T15** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Site T15, "Serendipity Hollow" (site of permanent transect established
by JM and DS in July 2001) east of Trig Island, transition between back
reef and shallowest lagoon, N rim of French Frigate Shoals, 9-14-01,
1-6m. (JM, DS, LP; Cox: Sage). GPS: 23° 51.789' N, 166° 12. 687' W

The site was revisited to accomplish quantitative algae quadrat
sampling, to accomplish a general DACOR coral survey, and to check on
the rate of cored coral recovery where one core hole was plugged with a
concrete cupcake and the other shorter hole was left unplugged.

Regarding the last, both core holes showed signs of coral regeneration
in the massive Porites lobata head that was cored in July 2001. Living
tissue had nearly covered over the plastic liner of the plug and the
concrete surface of the plug was hard, smooth and beginning to be
covered by a thin film of crustose coralline algae. Living tissue in the
unplugged hole had already spread about one cm in depth down the sides
of the core hole, and no signs of macro-algae colonization were evident.
Other surfaces on the colony, far removed from the core holes appeared
sick, accounting for about 10% of the colony. The causes for the
paleness were not evident. Some of the tissue looked disassociated from
the skeleton, and sand particles were embedded in the skeleton and not
being actively removed by the colony. Overall the colony is not in
serious danger of dying although definitely on the sick side.

The geomorphology of the site consists of a back reef environment,
subject to constant bathing of pristine oceanic waters pumped up on the
shallow reef flats to seaward by wave action and spilling into the
shallowest lagoon and continuing to move lagoonward. Sharks, sea
turtles, and numerous reef fishes were abundant at the site, and coral
variety and habitat complexity were very high, varying from a sand and
gravel floor and ridges at greater depths, and with steep walled coral
heads and pinnacles forming a labyrinth through the back reef. Coral
cover averaged greater than 50% on elevated surfaces and less than 10%
on the floor. Coral species richness was high, 14 species, and water
clarity excellent. The 6 stainless steel stakes of the transect were
relocated, and the transect looks to be in good condition. More than 30
GER readings were collected at different depths over different
substrates, including live coral species, crustose and branching
coralline algae, sand and gravel.

**FFS-T16 (CREWS)** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Site T16, NMFS Data Buoy, N central lagoon, permanent transect & coral
DACOR, shallow lagoon floor, depth 4-7m, 9-15-01. (JM, LP, DS, Cox:
Sage, & fish team ED, AF, SC). Sea very calm, glassy water surface,
almost no wind throughout the day. GPS: 23° 51.411'N, 166° 16.330'W

The site is situated at the NMFS Honolulu Laboratory oceanographic data
buoy installed on the reef the previous day. The buoy is located about 4
km SE of Tern Island on the shallow north lagoon floor. The 50m
permanent transect was installed 25m west of the buoy, in a north to
south direction. One of the fish team's 25m non-permanent transect was
laid parallel to the transect and 5m closer to the buoy, and both
transects were videotaped. In addition photo quadrats were taken at all
even number points on the permanent line plus an additional 12 photo
quadrats elsewhere along the line.

Geomorphology at the site consisted of low coral mounds and platforms
interspersed with sand, gravel, and rubble patches, with the highest
mound being a pinnacle reaching within 4m of the sea surface. Coral
cover was low to moderate with little or no live coral on the bottom
(mostly consolidated rubble) and higher coral cover on raised mound
surfaces. Coral cover averaged about 10% overall, but approaching 50% on
the larger elevated mounds. The lobe coral Porites lobata dominated the
coral community, but the finger coral Porites compressa was also very
abundant. Other surfaces on the mounds are very hard and covered with
crustose coralline algae. Water visibility at the site wasn't good, less
than 12m, and 13 species of corals were identified from the site.

**FFS-T17** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

**Site T17**, N ocean fore reef, 10 km east of Tern Island, depth 6-9m,
**9-15-01**. (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage). GPS: 23° 52.372' N, 166° 12.979'W
\[NOTE: the fish team as above is included in all subsequent sites
unless otherwise indicated\]

Originally the attempt to resurvey H4, the historic NMFS monitoring site
was aborted, and a new ocean facing reef site further north was chosen.
This site is situated NE of the former Whale Skate Island. The site was
reached via the lagoon and over the very shallow perimeter reef, during
calm winds, low wave action, and a half rising tide, following a
treacherous passage through the barrier reef. Site consisted of a hard
fore reef sloping gradually from the shallow spur and grooves (?) at
depths of less than 4m to depths greater than 10 meters. This site is a
windward facing reef subject to heavy surf, especially during winter
storm conditions, the very low profile and lack of much bathymetric
relief at the site are consistent with a wave controlled regime.
However, reefs to both the east and west of the site jut more seaward to
the north and undoubtedly afford some protection to the site from long
period swell.

The surface of the bottom was generally flat except for small narrow
rills and channels and some live corals elevated above the bottom. The
main substrate was mostly consolidated rubble colonized by macroalgae
and, in some areas, zoanthids. Live coral cover averaged about 20-25%
with mostly stony corals common. However, around depths of 6m, Zoanthus
pacifica a soft zoanthid coral, totally dominated most hard bottom
surfaces, and darkened the color of the reef. Of interest were other
soft corals (Sinularia, Palythoa) and two table coral species (Acropora
cytherea & A. valida). Coral diversity was high at the site, with 18
species reported. Visibility at this site was about 17-18 m. No
transects were laid out nor was the fish team present. GER readings were
collected of Acropora spp., Sinularia spp., zoanthids and the main
pavement substrates.

**FFS-T18** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Site T18, central lagoon, off the W side of Gin Island, shallow reef
slope, depths 1-6m, 9-15-01. (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage). GPS: 23° 43.6 N,
166° 09.9 W

This site consisted of a shallow sloping lagoon reef off the west side
of Gin Island in the central lagoon of the atoll. Water clarity at the
time was poor with an ebbing tide moving to the south at about 0.5 kts.
Lagoon waters were green, and a swell from the west was breaking on
shallow reef tops. The reef was of the fringing type, with moderate to
high relief, encircling Gin Island and affording the islet protection
from heavy wave action from the west. Several narrow channels bisected
the reef, allowing small boat access to the islet. Crustose coralline
algae (brown pigmentation) dominated shallower bottom habitats, and live
coral dominated reef slopes from 2m to the bottom of the slope at 6m.
Beyond, the slope the floor of the shallow lagoon was comprised of thick
rippled sand deposits with isolated coral heads. Sheets and
hemispherical heads of the lobe coral Porites lobata dominated the
bottom and coral communities achieving greater than 50 % in many
patches. Other common corals included encrusting corals Montipora spp
and rose corals Pocillopora spp. A total of 14 species of coral were
reported at the site. Arc shell mollusks were also common inhabitants of
reef substrates. Only a couple of GER readings of the dominant substrate
(pavement) were collected, as the water turbidity prevented quality
readings.

**FFS-T19** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

**Site T19**, central lagoon, NW of Gin Island, shallow lagoon fringing
reef type slope, depths 1-6m, **9-15-01**, and about 250m north of site
T18. (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage). GPS: 23° 44.664'N, 166° 10.324'W

This site was very similar to the previous one in all respects, except
that wave action was higher and pumping large amounts of seawater
eastward, over shallow (1m depth) reef flats. Greyish/brown colored
crustose coralline dominated the upper 2m of the slopes and flats, while
sheets and heads lobe coral dominated deeper depths. Also water clarity
was less than at T18. A total of 12 live coral species were reported at
the site. No transects nor videos were taken at the sites. A GER reading
of the brown coralline algae was taken out of the water.

**FFS-F-3P & FFS-Rrmc1 & 2** Jim Maragos

French Frigate Shoals, La Perouse Pinnacle, N side, N central lagoon,
depth 15-30 ft, permanent transect (50m) established 7/16/01, resurveyed
9/11/02:JM, DS, MV,

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1015 hrs     23 46\' 09.5\"N               166 15\' 41.7\"W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

Site of a 50m permanent transect established July 16, 2001 and
resurveyed September 11, 2002. The July 2001 survey included collection
of 2? coral cores, and an additional core of *Porites evermanni* was
obtained during a second dive at the site on 9/11/02. The site is
situated in basalt substrate that is limited to the vicinity of the
pinnacle and supports a variety of corals, other invertebrates, fish and
algae. Coral cover is high averaging about 33%, and includes several
species of *Acropora, Porites &* *Montipora.* All stainless steel pins
of the original transect were relocated, and additional pins installed
to increase their frequency to one per 5m, with the first (easternmost)
point double-staked.

**FFS-Rr3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1615 hrs     23 46\' 57\"N                 166 12\' 30.3\"W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, \~300m S of East Island, back (W) side of linear
reef running the N/S length of the atoll, 5-20 ft., remote sensing and
partial REA site, 11 September 2002, JM, DS, MV:*

Remote sensing/ground-truthing site off the back (west) side of the long
linear reef bisecting the lagoon of the atoll in a north-south
direction. High secondary *Porites lobata* cover off top, slope and
margin of west side of reef. Numerous other coral species and large fish
populations occur in habitat, possibly the recipient of particulates
flowing off the reef from wave set-up off the eastern windward perimeter
reef. High turbidity, some caused by fine sediments and possible
phytoplankton concentrations. Large dead hemispheres of corals, possibly
*Porites* forms much of the back reef.

**FFS-2P & Rrmc4** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0934 hrs     23.644787143N                 166.17457996W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals resurvey of permanent transect at Disappearing
Island, 16 ft., and addition of new stakes, increasing frequency to one
per 5m, coral coring site, and ground-truthing site, 12 September 2002,
JM, MV, DS:*

Successful relocation of permanent transect, surveying all 50m with
photoquadrats, and installing new pins to increase frequency to one
stake per every 5m. Coral core, *Porites evermanni,* collected about 40m
east of the beginning of the transect line, which runs S to N. Coral
cover remains high exceeding 50-60% cover, mostly *Porites lobata &
Pocillopora meandrina.* Reef is shallow passes -- reef crest transition
zone near the SW horn of the perimeter reef.

**FFS- Rr5** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1328 hrs     23.638529086N                 166.096857837W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, ground-truthing & coral DACOR site, SE fore
reef, 30-35 ft, 12 September 2002, JM, MV, DS:*

Several miles E of Disappearing Island, this fore reef habitat is
exposed, barren, and with sparse coral cover (\<5%) and diversity (\<10
species), mostly *Porites lobata & Pocillopora meandrina.* Benthic
habitat is typical of what occurs along most windward fore reefs .
Unidentified *Sinularia* reported as a new record, with brown polyps and
secondary branches. Numerous sharks, mostly curious.

**FFS- Rr6** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1417 hrs     23.644459506N                 166.102172567W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, ground-truthing snorkel site, depths 3-10 feet,
SE back reef and shallow pass, 12 September 2000, JM, DB, DS:*

Shallow back reef flat and pass through SE perimeter reef of atoll. Calm
seas and pass easily navigable. Large hemispherical heads of *Porites
lobata* in depressions and floor of pass. Back reef and reef crest
healthy and growing, comprised of mostly of large *Porites lobata*
colonies. *Montipora, Pavona duerdeni, Pocillopora,*and *Acropora.* An
unusual thicket of *Acropora valida* small tables covered a 50m diameter
slight depression on the back reef. Coral cover high all the way to the
reef crest. Aggressive gray reef sharks and jacks harassed the divers at
the crest.

**FFS- Rr7** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1611 hrs     23.722128149N                 166.098455449W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, ground-truthing dive, central SE lagoon, 60 ft.,
12 September 2002, JM, MV, DS*

Deep murky dive in SE central lagoon. Water murky and bottom covered
with thickets of dead standing coral, likely finger coral, *Porites
compressa* and rubble deposits of the same. Less than one percent live
coral cover, *Montipora patula, Pocillopora ligulata,* and small
*Porites.* Sand and rubble in depressions. Environment dark, gloomy,
full of particulates in suspension, and visibility reduced to 10 to 20
feet. Numerous sharks and jacks motivated us to terminate the dive
prematurely.

**FFS-Rr8** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0930 hrs     23.63582N                     166.18564W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, ground-truthing dive, S fore reef coral mound,
70-86 ft., 13 September 2002, JM, DS*

Over 15 divers descended from the *Rapture* to conduct surveys at an
elevated *Acropora cytherea* thicket measuring about 50m wide, 75m long
(upslope-downslope), and 2-3m high. Table corals dominated the habitat,
accounting for 75% of the corals with *Porites lobata* accounting for
most of the rest. Table corals were robust and entwined with the lobe
coral, and elevated above the bottom to offer refuge to many other
invertebrates, corals and fish. Large schools of butterfly, parrot,
goat, soldier and banner on the mound.

Spectacular and unique habitat, worthy of protection. Wire coral
(*Cirrhipathes)* reported at site, a new record for the atoll.

**FFS-Rrcm9** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1540 hrs     23.854896016N                 166.323056147W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, new permanent transect, coral coring and
ground-truthing site, Shark Island, 15 ft, 13 September 2002, JM, DS,
MV, JE*

Attempt to resurvey the permanent transect at FFS-1P was not successful,
and a new permanent transect Rm9 was established about 100 ft south of
the position coordinates. New transect was 50m long and completely
photographed, but without the quadrat frame. Beginning of transect
marked with a double stake. A 45cm coral core of *Porites lobata* was
collected near the transect by Daria and Jim. Site is subject to heavy
bioerosion, but coral cover was high averaging about 80% off the bottom.
Other common corals included *Pocillopora meandrina, Montipora capitata,
M. patula, M. flabellata, Acropora cytherea, Cyphastrea ocellina, and
Leptastrea purpurea.* Reef was a semi-enclosed micro-lagoon averaging 15
ft in depth on the rubble and sandy floor and rising to within 1 foot of
the surface in several places. Site was subject to considerable surge.
Habitat variety was high.

**FFS-Rrm10 (4P)** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1409 hrs     23.856691569N                 166.272223221W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, CREWS buoy site, N lagoon floor, resurvey of
2001 permanent 45m transect, 26 ft., 4 October 2002, JM, MV, DS (Boone
Cox)*

A protracted but successful resurvey of the 50m September 2001 transect
at the Coral Reef Early Warning System (CREWS) buoy in the N central
lagoon, S of Tern Island. Poor visibility (15 ft.) severely hampered our
attemps to find the buoy and then find the transect stakes, after
temporarily losing the hammer bag! Thanks to the ladies, all stakes were
relocated except the end stake, a second stake installed at the starting
point, and the entire transect photoquadrated.

Transect runs S to N on the W side of the buoy anchor that is about 15m
to the E. Transect curves to right to maintain proximity to the buoy.
Corals at site not well developed, but may be more abundant that last
year, about 10-15%. The bottom under the last 5m of the line is covered
with sand and so the last installed stake is at the 45m point in the
line. *Porites lobata & Pocillopora spp* were the most abundant corals
at the site. Rest of the bottom cover was sand and fine gravels (50%),
rubble (20%) and crustose coralline algae on elevated hard substrate
(15%).

**FFS-Rrm11 (16P)** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1718 hrs     23.863253080N                 166.211455610W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*French Frigate Shoals, N back reef, E of Trig Island, "Serendipity
Hollow", 3 miles E of Tern Is., resurvey of a 2001 permanent 50m
transect, 20 ft., 4 October 2002, JM, MV, DS (Cox Greg)*

No problem finding this site that was spotted from the boat. All 6
stakes relocated and a second stake installed at the beginning of the
50m transect, which runs S to N along the W side of a sand
depression/pit along the steep border of the reef highly developed with
corals, some very large, including *Porites lobata, P. compressa & P.
duerdeni.* Coral cored last July showed no signs of the operation and
plug was completely overgrown without any trace of a scar or depression.
Total coral cover 40-50% with crustose coralline alage dominating the
shallow reef crest and sand dominating depressions and holes. Much
bathymetric relief and ledges.

Three turtles were resting under ledges and one young pup monk seal hung
out near the skiff. Large schools of chubs, goatfish, numerous giant
trevallies, one white tip reef shark, a small school of Mu, and assorted
wrasses & parrotfish were common in the interstices and holes. High
diversity of corqls including the rare *Psammocora nierstraszi & Porites
duerdeni.* A solitary table coral, *Acropora cytherea* was still present
on the line and noticeably larger than last year.

Trimble explorer III was used to refix the coordinates, which were taken
on the skiff about 20m SW of the beginning point in the line. Marjo
spotted a coral shrimp.

**FRENCH FRIGATE SHOALS 2000 SUMMARY**

French Frigate Shoals is the second largest atoll in the NW Hawaiian
Islands, and contrasts with Nihoa and Necker in several respects. The
semi-enclosed lagoon of the atoll affords corals protection from the
destructive effects of storms and waves from the east, and provides many
other important reef habitats missing from exposed ocean reef
environments. The substrates of the atoll are predominantly reef
carbonates, and the overall habitat area afforded for coral reef
organisms is several orders of magnitude greater.

Abundant coral reef habitats at the atoll are: 1) deep ocean reef slopes
(which the REA teams did not survey); 2) ocean reef terraces; 3) spurs
and grooves; 4) fore reefs; 5) shallow perimeter reef flats and crests
on the eastern half of the atoll; 6) lagoon floor dominated by rubble
and sand deposits; 7) numerous pinnacle, line and reticular reefs in the
protected east lagoon; 8) subsurface reef pinnacles including mounds and
platforms off the lagoon floor; and 9) deep open lagoon reefs on the
western side of the atoll (not surveyed). Less extensive habitats
include:10) passes through the eastern perimeter reef; 11) inshore
habitats associated with emergent islets; 12) artificial habitats
(concentrated at East and Tern islets); 13) two basaltic sea stacks at
La Perouse Pinnacle, and 14) double-ended spur and groove and sand
channel systems at each end of the eastern perimeter reef.

Coral diversity and abundance was much greater at French Frigate Shoals
because of the greater complexity and quantity of habitats. In addition,
greater sampling intensity contributed to the higher reported species
diversity at the atoll. However, wave action, large ocean swells, and
periodic storms control coral and reef development, as evidenced from
surveys especially along the eastern ocean reefs. Windward ocean fore
reefs and reef terraces were invariably composed of broken coral and
rubble deposits, except for a few isolated patches of lobe and table
corals. The best coral development occurred near the lagoon ends of the
reef where exposure to waves and storms is reduced and where the influx
of clean ocean water promotes habitat diversity and better water
quality. Poorer reef habitats were concentrated in the shallow eastern
lagoon dominated by shallow sediment deposits, strong currents, high
turbidity, and poorer water quality. Although artificial surfaces were
not surveyed during the REA, previous surveys indicate disturbance from
dredging, filling, and possibly contaminants, especially at East and
Tern Islands.

French Frigate Shoals may be serving as the key "stepping stone" for the
recruitment of table corals (*Acropora* spp) to the Hawaiian Islands.
The atoll the closest to nearby Johnston Atoll, where the same table
coral species are very abundant. Moreover, four other contiguous islands
to FFS also support *Acropora*, based on NOW-RAMP surveys, but in lesser
abundance (Necker Island, Gardner Pinnacles, Maro Reef, and Laysan
Island). FFS may be the key distribution point for table coral in
Hawaii, both up the chain to the NW and down the chain to the SE, as far
as Kauai where populations of the table coral, *Acropora cytherea,* have
been recently reported. The Johnston-FFS connection may also be the
dispersal pathway for other reef species.

**GARDNER PINNACLES**

# **GAR-RD-102** 10/16/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 24^o^ 59.???' N, 160^o^ 00.???' W (Boat coxswain didn't record at
this site).

Location: Northwest basalt pinnacle, windward side (east).

> System: Basalt Sea Stack.
>
> Habitat: Basalt pavement with areas of large basalt boulders and
> shallow depressions; boulders and depressions had encrusting coral and
> coralline algae on them. Basalt pinnacle formed a vertical wall down
> to the pavement at 50 -- 60'. Areas between boulders formed protected
> areas with high amounts of sponges, corals and algae. Lots of dead
> oyster shells attached to exposed portions of the boulders.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 40 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented twenty species of
> stony coral, the sand anemone *Heteractis malu*, the soft coral
> *Sinularia* sp.(*abrupta*), and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*.
> *Balanophyllia* and *Tubastraea* were found growing deep under a
> overhang adjacent to the pinnacle. *Psammacora* explanulata and *P.
> nierstraszi* were found in a hole under a boulder. A number of the
> small pocilloporid colonies had recently been preyed upon by
> Crown-of-Thorns seastars (*Acanthaster planci*), three of which were
> observed in the area. *Porites lobata* and *P. compressa* were the
> most common corals. *Acropora cytheria* was found at this site as
> small colonies on the lee (west) side of boulders or in shallow
> depressions in the pavement. The majority of the stony coral species
> were found growing in areas with some protection from the prevailing
> wave action, either on the lee side of large boulders, between
> boulders or in shallow depressions in the pavement.
>
> Other: *Halimeda* was found growing in small clumps throughout the
> area. Numerous forms of sponges were seen between boulders, under
> boulders, in cracks and crevices and in some of the shallow
> depressions on the basalt pavement. Spotted a large barracuda,
> numerous large *ulua* (including two that were amongst the largest
> seen on the entire trip), a large grey snapper (*uku*), two white-tip
> reef sharks and three Crown-of-Thorns seastars (*Acanthaster planci*).

# **GAR-RD-104** 10/16/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 24^o^ 59.966' N, 160^o^ 00.063' W.

Location: Northwest basalt pinnacle, leeward side (west).

> System: Basalt Sea Stack.
>
> Habitat: Basalt pavement with spur and groove running parallel to the
> shore. Tops and sides of spur had calcareous algae and living corals,
> grooves consisted of flat pavement with occasional shallow
> depressions. Occasional large colonies of coral (*Leptastrea
> purpurea*, *Porites lobata* and *Acropora gemmifera*) were found on
> the tops, sides, and bases of the spurs. Boulders and depressions were
> found directly adjacent to the basalt pinnacle which formed a vertical
> wall down to the pavement at 40'. Areas between boulders formed
> protected areas with high amounts of sponges, corals and algae.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 40 -- 55'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented twenty species of
> stony coral, the soft coral *Sinularia* sp.(*abrupta*), and the
> zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. *Balanophyllia* and *Tubastraea*
> were found growing deep under a overhang on one of the spurs and
> directly adjacent to the pinnacle. Three species of *Acropora* were
> documented: *Acropora cytheria*, *A. cerealis* and *A. gemmifera*.
> *Acropora gemmifera* was the most abundant coral found at this site,
> numerous large colonies were found atop and along the sides of the
> spurs. The other two species of *Acropora* (*A. cytheria* and *A.
> cerealis*) were only found as small colonies. *Montipora patula* and
> the soft coral *Sinularia* sp. (*abrupta*) were only found growing
> directly adjacent to the pinnacle. Some of the pocilloporid colonies
> had recently been preyed upon by Crown-of-Thorns seastars
> (*Acanthaster planci*), four of which were observed in the area. A
> number of the large *A. gemmifera* colonies were partially dead,
> perhaps from attacks by Crown-of-Thorns seastars.
>
> Other: Spotted a two white-tip reef sharks and four Crown-of-Thorns
> seastars (*Acanthaster planci*).

**GAR-RJ-106** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1300 hrs     24° 59.917'N                  167 59.987'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Gardner Pinnacles, SW wall, blocks, boulder field, and wave cut shelf,
20-51 feet, 2 transects, 10/16/00*

This site was located in the lee of the tradewinds, near the southwest
facing wall of the larger of the two basalt seastacks, and included
surveys of adjacent basalt blocks, boulders, and the wave cut shelf.
Basalt rock was the dominant substrate, except for live coral averaging
about 10% cover, dead coral and basalt surfaces covered with a thin
veneer of crustose coralline algae, and shallow sand deposits in some
caves and crevices. A thin veneer of carbonate also covered much of the
wave cut shelf beginning at depths of about 50 feet and extending and
descending gradually at great distances from the pinnacles. Wave surge
and currents were strong, especially in shallow water up against the
wall of the seastack. Large blocks and boulders that have spalled off
the pinnacle in previous times created crevasses, caves and interstices
where a variety of reef life could take shelter. Reef corals were
generally confined to elevated substrates especially the flat tops of
boulders and blocks, ledges, or the gently sloping submerged walls of
the pinnacle. The soft coral *Sinularia* was especially common on
elevated basalt surfaces, where corals in general can escape damage from
scour. Despite the diversity of corals (15 species) at the site and the
healthy status of corals, reef building is not occurring in the vicinity
of the pinnacles, due to the rigorous nature of the ocean environment.
In addition, one *Acanthaster* was observed feeding on *Pocillopora.*
Bore holes in the rock created by *Echinostrephus* were also common, and
adding to the erosive environment. The abundant reef corals were
*Porites lobata, Pocillopora meandrina,* and *Leptastrea purpurea.* No
anthropogenic stress was evident at the site. Large and diverse fish
schools were present at the site.

**GAR-RJ-107** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1300 hrs     24° 59.917'N                  167 59.987'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Gardner Pinnacles, windward (NE) facing shelf, blocks, boulder field,
and wall, 20-58 feet, 2 transects, 10/16/00*

This site is on the opposite side of the main pinnacle at approximately
the same depth and distance offshore as the previous site (GAR-RJ-106).
The environments were very similar in most respects, except that wave
action and currents were stronger at this site. The wave-cut terrace was
more scoured, flat, and covered with sediment in suspension. Fish
schools were diverse and abundant. More time was spent in crevasses and
caves, and several corals adapted to such environments were present:
*Tubastraea, Balanophyllia,* and *Psammocora.* The most abundant corals
were *Leptastrea spp, Pocillopora meandrina,* and *Porites lobata.*
Despite the low abundance of corals at the site (10% cover), 20 species
were reported, including 2 mushroom corals. No anthropogenic disturbance
was evident at the site.

**GAR-Rrm1** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0909 hrs     24.998894912N                 167.99984037W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Gardner Pinnacles, W coast, semi-protected cove near N end of larger
(S) pinnacle, basalt wall blocks, overhangs, and deep shelf, 25-50 ft,
permanent 50m transect, 09/14/02, JM, MV, DS, JE*

The site is the most protected shore at Gardner, transitioning from a
vertical wall in shallow, large blocks at intermediate depths, and a
shelf at greater depths, all basalt except for a thin veneer of
carbonate and some white sand on the shelf. 50m transect line laid from
N (left) to S (right) along the west coast, with beginning pins at about
40 ft in the large blocks, and then descending to the shelf where the
line passes over a few additional blocks. Entire line was
photo-quadrated.

Large monk seal at site attracted the attention of 15 other divers near
the site, and played with the transect line as it was being laid by
Marjo. Despite its protected locale, the site was exposed to surge and
currents washing through the gap between the two pinnacles. Visibility
was high (100 ft). Coral cover was low, less than one percent, although
diversity was high. Numerous sharks and jacks. New record for *Acropora
humilis* at the site for Gardner Pinnacles.

**GAR-Rrc2** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1132 hrs     24.997794984N                 167.997477079W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Gardner Pinnacles, NE windward side, deep shelf, 200m offshore, 60 ft.,
ground-truthing and coral collection for dating site, 9/14/02, JM, MV,
DS, JE*

Off windward side of island, although winds and seas were light. Bottom
very flat terrace with very low relief. Fish and corals and other
invertebrates concentrated in shallow holes or pits and on small mounds
and rises. Substrate was carbonate, a thin veneer over basalt, and the
vestiges of a once more flourishing reef. Coral and fish cover very low.
Cover was mostly consolidated rubble and shifting sand and turf algae.
Of interest was marine debris consisting of a floating metal grid/raft
at the end of a long cable and rope snagged on a coral head on the
bottom. The line was fouled with gooseneck barnacles an alien species in
direct contact with the bottom. I freed the raft from the coral head.
Brown boobies were roosting on the floating raft. Unusual blue
*Linckia-*like sea star with a black band mid-length on the arms wasw
photographed. Also file-fish and *Dascyllus* common.

**GAR-Rr3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1502 hrs     25.00065731N                  167.999617244W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Gardner Pinnacles, NW coast of larger pinnacle and N of smaller
pinnacle, semi-exposed cove, 20-57ft, 09/14/02, JM, DS*

Similar to first site in all respects. Vertical basalt wall at shallow
depths, talus slope of large blocks and boulders at intermediate depths
and isolated blocks over a flat plain or shelf at greater depths (70
ft+). We did not descend to the shelf and remained at depths above 60
ft. Large schools of goatfish, taape, jacks, and sharks, boxfish,
knifejaws, hawkfish, soldierfish, and butterfly fish all common. Corals
were rare except large expansive mats of *Sinularia* on flat or sloping
basalt pavement at intermediate depths. Numerous overhangs, arches,
canyons, walls, and outcrops of basalt. Habitats for ahermatypic corals,
bryozoans, hydroids, and other unknown invertebrates. Spectacular
scenery and fish populations.

**2000 SUMMARY FOR GARDNER PINNACLES**

The ocean environment at Gardner Pinnacles is turbulent most of the time
because the two small islands do not offer much lee or protection from
heavy wave action and currents. During our surveys, seas were 3 to 5
feet, and winds about 15 knots out of the northeast, generally light
compared to prevailing conditions. Strong currents from the same
direction were wrapping around the sides of the pinnacles, creating a
zone of current shear along the northwest and southeast sides, and
joining up again downdrift of the island. Thus it was only possible to
dive along the southwest and northeast sides of the pinnacles. From the
dives it was evident that coral are more abundant on elevated surfaces
and behind rises or mounds that protect them from scour. The high
diversity of corals reflects the variety of habitats available, while
the low abundance reflects the wave and scour controlled nature of the
ocean environment. Basalt substrates also seem to be preferred by the
soft coral *Sinularia,* since this coral was common at all other basalt
islands. The small magnitude of the suitable shallow water environments
around the pinnacles limits total recruitment and the number of reef
building species that can successfully establish. The wave energy regime
is too erosive and more than counteracts the rate of carbonate accretion
by corals, coralline algae, and other reef-building organisms. Although
there are large expanses of reef shelf habitat between 10 and 20 fathoms
around the pinnacles, these reefs may be too deep to reach sea level and
allow Gardner to survive as an atoll, given present climatic and
sea-level conditions.

**KURE ATOLL**

# **KUR-RD-40** 10/01/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 24.615' N, 178^o^ 21.584' W

Location: Mid-Lagoon

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Patch reef habitat with lots of rubble, surrounded by rubble
> and sand flats.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and macroalgae.
>
> Depth: 2 -- 15'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented five species of stony
> coral. Most common corals were *Pocillopora damicornis* and
> *Psammocora stellata*.
>
> Other: Lots of rock-boring urchins, damselfish and wrasses. Four
> Blue-line butterflyfish. Amazing number of cleanerwrasses, including a
> large number of juveniles. Lots of juvenile fish. Numerous large
> lobsters (*Panulirus marginatus*). Vermetid molluscs.

# **KUR-RD-42** 10/02/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 26.146' N, 178^o^ 22.352' W

Location: Outside reef slope, west side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Outside reef slope, spur and groove habitat. Occasional
> overhangs and holes.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Pocillopora*.
>
> Depth: 60 -- 80'.
>
> Coral: 20 - 30% live coral cover. Documented twelve species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Dominant coral was
> *Pocillopora ligulata*. Collected specimens of *P. lichen.* Documented
> two large colonies of *P. elegans*.
>
> Other: Spotted six *Hapu'u*, two of them were being cleaned by Cleaner
> Wrasses. One green sea turtle (*Chelonia mydas*). Lots of Potter's
> Angelfish. Seven inquisitive Galapagos sharks came up to us while we
> were doing our safety stops.

**KUR-RJ-43** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1503 hrs     28° 24.481'N                  178 20.823'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, pinnacle reef, SW lagoon, depth 3-30 feet, 2
transects,10/1/00*

The site was located in the southwest lagoon, near some of the deep
lagoon reaches. Here the bottom of the lagoon was at 30 feet and
dominated by fine carbonate sand deposits. At depths of 20 to 25 feet a
gradually sloping rise of clean rubble and sand deposits surrounded the
base of the pinnacles. At shallower depths the slopes of the pinnacles
became steep and consisted of semi-consolidated rubble stacks, possibly
"windrows" at right angles to the prevailing trade wind and wave
direction. A weak veneer of semi-cemented coralline algal bossses formed
a flat top to the reef, but most rubble pieces were not cemented, but
rather wedged into the substrate. Fuzzy turf algae covered rubble at
intermediate depths. *Halimeda* was surprisingly rare. Corals covered
about 10% of the substrate above depths of 20 feet (especially *Porites*
and *Pocillopora*), and were common at the base of the steeper rubble
slopes and on top of the reef (especially *Pocillopora damicornis,
Cyphastrea ocellina ,*and *Psammocora stellata*). Of interest were the
unusual forms and species of *Pocillopora* (*P. ligulata, P. cf elegans,
P. molokensis)* and unidentified *Porites* (*P. cf hawaiiensis)* and
leafy *P. lobata.* A total of 11 species of corals were reported. No
anthropogenic disturbance was evident.

# **KUR-RD-44** 10/02/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 25.45' N, 178^o^ 22.69' W

Location: Outside reef slope, southwest side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Outside reef slope, Spur and groove habitat.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and *Pocillopora*.
>
> Depth: 45 - 65'.
>
> Coral: 15 - 20% live coral cover. Documented eleven species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Dominant coral was
> *Pocillopora ligulata*. Spotted two colonies of *P. elegans*, one of
> which was mostly dead. A number of the *P. ligulata* colonies appeared
> as bright white skeletons, suggesting recent Crown-of-Thorns
> predation.
>
> Other: Lots of rock-boring urchins. Christmas tree worms
> (*Spirobranchus* sp.). Spotted two large *Exalias brevis*.

**KUR-RJ-45** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0910 hrs     28° 26.756'N                  178 21.662'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, NW ocean reef spur-and-grooves, depth 39-60 feet, 2
transects, 10/2/00*

The site is located outside the NW ocean perimeter reef, within a
massive spur or buttress system alternating with deeply incised sand
channels. The buttresses averaged 30m across and 5m high and the sand
channels 5m wide. The tops of the buttresses were covered with crustose
coralline algae and turf algae with 25% live coral reef cover dominated
by ramose coral communities of *Pocillopora*. The tops of the spurs
showed low relief, but the sides were near vertical with numerous
overhangs and small caves and ledges. The sand channels were filled with
deep carbonate rippled sand, and the channels shoaled and merged
lagoonward of the dive site. Fish populations were abundant and diverse
and visibility very high. Ten species of corals were reported with
*Pocillopora ligulata* dominant, *Porites lobata* and *P. lichen*
abundant, and *Psammocora stellata, Pocillopora damicornis, and Palythoa
tuberculosa* common. No anthropogenic disturbance was evident. Some
*Pocillopora* heads were bleached white from unknown causes (no
*Acanthaster* was seen). No anthropogenic disturbance was noted.

# **KUR-RD-46** 10/02/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 24.217' N, 178^o^ 22.45' W

Location: Southwest Passage

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Pass. Carbonate platforms with small sand channels. Lots of
> three-dimensional relief, numerous caves, holes and overhangs.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and macroalgae.
>
> Depth: 25 -- 40'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Most common corals were
> *Pocillopora damicornis, P. ligulata, Psammacora stellata* and
> *Porites lichen*. Documented nine species of stony coral and two
> zoanthids. Spotted an unknown zoanthid (videotaped but couldn't
> collect), and collected an unknown species of *Porites.*
>
> Other: Lots of rock-boring urchins, a few pencil slate urchins.
> Videotaped a flatfish (*Bothus* sp.), morwong, a very large dragon
> eel, a kahala and a knifejaw.

**KUR-RJ-47** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1143 hrs     28° 25.788'N                  178 22.357'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, W ocean reef spur-and-groove complex, depth 35-60 feet, 2
transects, 10/2/00*

The site is located off the west ocean side of the perimeter reef of the
atoll, in a transition zone for the spur-and-groove system. The spurs
were irregular, and in some cases, the sand channels incomplete, giving
the whole considerable habitat complexity, including holes, caves,
ledges, mounds, although flat pavement on the tops of the spurs was
extensive. Ramose corals of *Pocillopora* dominated the coral community
(33% cover), and crustose corallines covered most of the remaining
substrates. *Pocillopora ligulata* was dominant, and *Palythoa* and
*Porites lobata/lichen* were abundant. *Psammocora,* *Cyphastrea,
Montipora flabellata,* and *Porites compressa* were common. A total of
15 species of corals were reported. Visibility was high, the site
appeared pristine, and there was no sign of any anthropogenic
disturbance.

# 

# **KUR-RD-48** 10/03/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 27.419' N, 178^o^ 20.536' W

Location: Outside forereef on the north side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Wave-scoured spur and groove habitat with numerous cracks,
> overhangs and holes. Large spurs had multiple wide cracks running
> parallel through the middle of them.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins.

Depth: 50 -- 80'. Top of spurs was 50 -- 60', bottom of groves hit 80'.

> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented ten species of stony
> coral and two zoanthids. Most abundant corals were *Pocillopora
> ligulata* and *Porites lichhen* which occurred on the tops of the
> wave-scoured spurs.
>
> Other: Lots of planktivorous fishes out in the open. Documented a
> number of Spanish Dancer nudibranch (*Hexabranchus sanguineus*)
> eggcases and penshells underneath overhangs on the sides of the spurs.
> Documented a large Crown-of-Thorns seastar (*Acanthaster planci*)
> feeding on a *P. ligulata* colony; numerous white *P. ligulata*
> skeletons also sighted. Sighted a large black jack and 6 *Hapu'u*, one
> with two cleaner wrasses working on it. About 5 Galapagos sharks
> followed the divers around during the dive; 6 -- 8 started circling
> during the safety stop.

**KUR-RJ-49** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1524 hrs     28° 24.733'N                  178 22.441'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, SW pass, rocky debris field, depth 5-24 feet, 1 transect,
10/2/00*

The site is situated at the southern end of the perimeter reef along the
west side of the atoll, at the western end of the broad pass area off
the SW side of the atoll. The site consisted of several habitats from
west to east: 1) the structural end of the perimeter reef, consisting of
massive spurs and grooves, but lacking much coral cover but with
abundant turf algae, 2) large flat and barren rubble and sand flat, a
major course for current flow through the pass, and 3) a clastic debris
field of large scoured boulders, blocks, and fractured sections of the
reef, likely broken off by large waves and storms. The last displayed
considerable habitat complexity. The surfaces were dominated by crustose
coralline algae and heavily grazed turf algae. Corals showed low
diversity (9 species) and sparse cover (less than 5%), although grazing
surgeon fish and rudderfish populations were huge. A two knot current
was ebbing from the pass at the time of our dive. Abundant corals were
*Pavona duedeni* and *Pocillopora ligulata,* and common corals were
*Porites lobata/lichen, Montipora flabellata,* and *Pocillopora
damicornis.*

# 

# **KUR-RD-50** 10/03/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 27.532' N, 178^o^ 19.293' W

Location: Outside forereef on the northeast side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Spur and groove habitat with extremely low number of holes or
> overhangs.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins.

Depth: 40 -- 65'. 40' on top of the spurs, 60 -- 65' at the bottom of
the grooves.

> Coral: 5 - 10% live coral cover. Documented twelve species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Most common corals were
> *Pocillopora ligulata* and *Porites lichen*. Documented a couple small
> colonies of *Montipora flabellata*. One colony of *Pocillopora
> elegans*.
>
> Other: Amazing number of small *Aweoweo* out in the open in small
> groups of 10 -- 20. Pencil slate urchins. Spotted two *Hapu'u*.

**KUR-RJ-51** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1028 hrs     28° 27.565'N                  178 19.890'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, N ocean reef terrace and buttresses and sand channels,40-60
feet,2 transects, 10/3/00*

The site is situated at the northern-most point of the atoll along the
ocean reef terrace and spur-and-groove system. The reef consists of
massive buttresses separated by broad sand channels with both features
averaging 50m in width and the buttresses averaging 10m in height. The
narrow sand channels are chasms cut into the spurs. The substrate
consists of consolidated carbonates and coralline algae with numerous
*Echinostrephus* bore holes and live coral cover averaging 25-30% cover.
Fuzzy turf algae grows over the crustose coralline algae. The dominant
corals are branching forms of *Pocillopora ligulata* and *P. elegans*
and encrusting forms of *Porites lobata.* A total of 6 species of corals
were reported at the site. The reef appeared healthy, growing, and
lacking any anthropogenic disturbance.

# 

# **KUR-RD-52** 10/03/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 23.377' N, 178^o^ 21.626' W

Location: Eastern end of southwest passage

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Carbonate platforms with small sand channels. Lots of
> three-dimensional relief, numerous caves, holes and overhangs. Wave
> scoured.

Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and Galapagos sharks (ok, but there
sure were a lot of those sharks...).

> Depth: 35 -- 45'.
>
> Coral: 5% live coral cover. Documented eleven species of stony coral,
> two zoanthids, and the sand anemone *Heteractis malu*. Dominant coral
> was *Pocillopora ligulata*. Patches of *P. lichen* and colonies of *P.
> lichen* were the primary corals seen atop the reef face; the vast
> majority of coral species were found inside vertical holes and pits
> where they were somewhat protected from wave scouring. Found a single
> colony of *Pavona varians* and two colonies of *Pocillopora elegans*
> growing next to overhangs. Documented a single large (\> 12" diameter)
> individual of the sand anemone *Heteractis malu* underneath an
> overhang.
>
> Other: Numerous Galapagos sharks followed us throughout the dive, over
> thirty were circling us during the safety stop. A number of large
> jacks around an Ulua Hole. Numerous Hapu'u including a pair that
> traveled around the reef together

**KUR-RJ-53** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1330 hrs     28° 26.985'N                  178 17.949'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, windward (NE) ocean reef terrace and spur-and-groove
system, 44-60 feet, 2 transects, 10/3/00*

The site is situated on the northeastern rim of the atoll, along the
ocean reef terrace and spur-and-groove system. At the time of the
surveys, strong trade winds of 25 knots and seas of 10 feet were
approaching the coast. The tops of the spurs were wide (15m), barren,
and scoured smooth at depths of 20m and less. Coral cover on the tops of
the spurs approached 35%, mostly low-profile encrustations of *Porites
lobata.* Branching colonies of *Pocillopora ligulata* were the only
other abundant corals. Some bleached *Acanthaster* scars on small
colonies of the species were numerous. Bore holes from *Echinostrephus*
pockmarked the hard surfaces of the spurs. Rippled sand characterized
the sand channels. A total of 12 species of corals were reported at the
site, the most exposed to wave action and surge. Despite the rigorous
conditions at the site, the reef looked healthy and growing and lacking
any anthropogenic disturbance.

# 

# **KUR-RD-54** 10/04/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 25.95' N, 178^o^ 17.381' W

Location: Outside Forereef, east of atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Spur and groove habitat with holes and some overhangs.
> Adjacent spur had numerous caves underneath hollowed out portions of
> the spur.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins.
>
> Depth: 50 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: 10 - 15% live coral cover. Documented fourteen species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Most common corals were
> *Pocillopora ligulata* and *Porites lichen*, which were the primary
> corals found atop the spurs. The rest of the coral species were found
> either on the sides of the spurs or in holes or under overhangs.
> Collected a small cluster of *Fungia scutaria* and documented some
> small encrusting colonies of *Montipora flabellata*.
>
> Other: Large numbers (\>20) of the Crown-of-Thorns seastar
> (*Acanthaster planci*), many of which were observed feeding on *P.
> ligulata*. Documented a male Masked Angelfish (*Geniacanthus*). Saw a
> pair of Multibanded butterflyfish (*Chaetodon multicinctus*) hanging
> around a point on the spur. Largers of numbers of *aweoweo* around and
> inside caves, along with schools of goatfish, bandit angelfish, and
> butaguchi.

**KUR-RJ-55** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1723 hrs     28° 23.746'N                  178 20.673'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, S lagoon mounds and rises, 2 transects, 0-15 feet, 10/3/00*

The site is located inside the lagoon about 1 km northwest of Sand
Island and about 2 km northeast of the southern end of the southwest
pass. Substrates consisted of rubble piles forming drifts and shallow
rises and corresponding troughs dominated with carbonate sand deposits.
The tallest of the rises was a pinnacle approaching within 2m of the sea
surface and covered with large sections of dead coral veneered with
crustose coralline algae. Corals were concentrated on the crests of the
rises, although not very abundant. Many dead standing corals were
evident, including a very large dead colony of *Pavona duerdeni* which
had been colonized by secondary growths of the fingercoral *Porites
compressa.* Large lobsters were huddled under the hole. A total 6 coral
species were recorded from the site. Some fishing line and nets were
snagged on coral heads of *Pocillopora damicornis.*

# 

# **KUR-RD-56** 10/04/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 23.355' N, 178^o^ 17.267' W

Location: Outside Forereef directly southeast of Green Islet. Dive site
was directly offshore of the remains of the F/V Paradise Queen which ran
aground off Green Islet in 1998.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Wave-scoured spur and groove with sand channels, small cracks
> and holes. Large number of small channels and holes caused by
> rock-boring urchins.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins.

Depth: 25 -- 40'. Top of the spur was around 25', bottom of the sand
channels (grooves) were around 40'.

> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented seven species of
> stony coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Most common coral
> was *Porites lichen* and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*.
>
> Other: Number of Crown-of-Thorns feeding on *Pocillopora ligulata*.
> Numerous Hawaiian Lionfish and Turkeyfish underneath ledges and in
> holes. Large number of pencil slate urchins out in the open.

Note: Ship remains were primarily in the shallow waters directly
adjacent to shore. Only evidence of the wreck found on this survey were
a number of large pieces of fiberglass-like substances found off the
transect line by Alan Friedlander.

**KUR-RJ-57** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1017 hrs     28° 24.989' N                 178 16.994'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, E ocean reef terrace and spur-and-grooves, 2 transects,
depth 20-50 feet, 10/4/00*

The site is located off the east ocean side of the perimeter reef, one
nautical mile north of Green Island. Sets of up to 6 to 8 foot swells
from the east were passing the dive site and breaking on the shallow
reef terrace and spurs-and-grooves. At the site the reef consisted of
broad spurs (30m wide) with narrow sand channels and chasms. A portion
of the dive was spent in room-and-pillar formations of the reef,
evidence that the windward reef is growing seaward. The substrate
consisted of hard reef rock covered by coralline and fleshy algae with
*Echinostrephus* bore holes. The most abundant corals were *Porites
lobata,Pocillopora ligulata, and Pocillopora meandrina.* Live coral
cover averaged 20% with 10 total species reported. Two *Acanthaster*
were seen feeding on *P. meandrina.* No anthropogenic stress was evident
on the reef.

# **KUR-RD-58** 10/04/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 25.418' N, 178^o^ 21.920' W

Location: Lagoon, western-end.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Patch reef habitat with lots of rubble, surrounded by rubble
> and sand flats. Surrounding flats often had evenly spaced rubble
> mounds suggesting some sort of burrowing animals (see video).
>
> Ecological Unit: *Montipora*.
>
> Depth: 10 -- 20'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented twelve species of
> stony coral. *Montipora capitata* was the most abundant coral, though
> the majority of the exposed coral was bleached. Observed numerous,
> isolated massive heads of coral, mostly *M. capitata* or *M. capitata*
> and coralline algae. Came upon a number of massive, isolated colonies
> of *Pavona duerdeni*, including a single colony which measured over 3
> m in diameter and was over 3 m high. Documented and sampled *Montipora
> turgescens*, which was growing as an encrusting coral, in some places
> being extremely common.
>
> Other: Large lobster were found inside holes under many of the massive
> coral colonies. Large parrotfish were cruising between coral heads.
> Spotted a Hawaiian lionfish and a large green *Linckia*. Large (5')
> Galapagos shark was observed swimming underneath the tender boat.

**KUR-RJ-59** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1226 hrs     28° 23.075'N                  178 17.664'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, SE ocean reef terrace and spurs-and-groove, 2 transects,
depth 10-40 feet, 10l4/00.*

This site is situated along the windward ocean reef terrace and
spurs-and-grooves, just offshore of Green Island, at the southeast
corner of the atoll. The principal bottom features were massive
buttresses alternating with sand channels perpendicular to the reef
face. Unlike the spurs or buttresses more to the northeast, those at the
site were less uniform and orderly, with numerous contortions and
smaller spurs, resulting in greater habitat complexity. The substrates
consisted of consolidated coralline algal pavement riddled with numerous
*Echinometra* and *Echinostrephus* bore holes. Sand and rubble together
with hard coral were consolidated in a brecchia type substrate.
Bathymetry consisted of gradual rises and mounds and shallow
depressions. Offshore at greater depths (.40 feet) the hard reef gave
way to a broad flat sand terrace with rubble sheets and scattered dead
corals. Sand channels bisected the reef and were filled with rippled
carbonate sand. Dead and partially bleached *Pocillopora* heads were
common. Coral cover was low, about 10% and only six species were
reported, with *Porites lobata* encrustations the only common form. Of
interest was the record of the sand anemone *Heteractis malu*, only its
second sighting in the NW Hawaiian Islands, and a species proposed for
listing as an endangered species. No anthropogenic disturbance was
evident at the site.

# **KUR-RD-60** 10/05/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 23.015' N, 178^o^ 20.250' W

Location: Outside Forereef, South side of Atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Spur and groove habitat with numerous cracks and holes.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins.
>
> Depth: 50 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: 15 -- 20% live coral cover. Documented nine species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Dominant coral was
> *Porites lichen*. One large, almost dead head of *Porites lobata*
> along with one small head of the same species.
>
> Other: Documented eight female and two male Masked angelfish
> (*Geniacanthus*). Additional sightings included four Galapagos sharks,
> a large male *uhu*, Multibanded butterflyfish (*Chaetodon
> multicinctus*) feeding on *P. lichen*, and Potter's angelfish
> co-occurring with Shortnose wrasses. Counted a total of four
> Crown-of-Thorns seastars (*Acanthaster planci*), documented one
> feeding on *P. damicornis*.

**KUR-RJ-61** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1643 hrs     28° 25.117'N                  178 20.753'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, central lagoon reticulate reefs and coral gardens, no
transects, depths 0-35 feet, 10/4/00*

Recommended by the sediment team, this site was the most developed live
coral assemblage visited at the atoll during the Kure survey. The reef
consisted of meandering steep-sided and mostly linear reefs that
coalesced to form reticulate network of reefs with varying degrees of
exchange with adjacent lagoon areas. Water quality during the survey was
relatively high except for flocculates and particulates suspended in the
water column. Finger coral blanketed all steep slopes and the tops of
the reefs, while thick sand deposits covered the floor of the lagoon.
Maximum depth at the site was about 35 feet. Finger coral (*Porites
compressa*) accounted for the great majority of live coral which
averaged about 85% cover. Foliaceous colonies of *Pavona* *varians* were
concentrated at depth and in the shade, while branching colonies of
*Pocillopora ligulata,* and *P. damicornis* were abundant at shallow
depths*,* and *Porites lobata* was common on the tops of the reefs. A
total of 11 species of coral were reported at the site. Spectacular
schools of goatfish and rudderfish began to assemble at the site during
the late afternoon. No anthropogenic impacts were evident at the site.

# 

# **KUR-RD-62** 10/05/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 24.864' N, 178^o^ 20.327' W

Location: Lagoon, Middle of Atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Patch reef habitat with two large reef holes, adjacent
> habitat included rubble burrows and sand flats with occasional large
> massive colonies of *P. compressa* and rubble piles with various
> species of coral growing atop them.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 10 -- 30'.
>
> Coral: 60 -- 80% live coral cover. Documented eleven species of stony
> coral. The overwhelmingly dominant coral was *Porites compressa*,
> which composed the vast majority of the patch reef along with a number
> of massive colonies on the adjacent sand/rubble flat. One massive
> colony adjacent to the patch reef was estimated to be over 3.5 m high.
> The reef hole itself was lined with towering skeletons of *P.
> compressa* which formed a calcareous algal-covered structural support
> for the living *P. compressa* above it. From the sand-covered floor to
> the top of the hole, these *P. compressa* structures measured 7 m.
> Adjacent rubble piles often had *P. damicornis*, *P. ligulata* and *P.
> stellata* growing on them. *Fungia scutaria* was found atop the reef
> flat along with *P. compressa*, *P. damicornis*, *P. ligulata* and
> calcareous algae.
>
> Other: Much of the *P. compressa* had the green algae *Microdictyon*
> growing between the branches. Documented a large purple jelly in the
> lagoon next to the anchored tender boat at this site. Noted numerous
> pencil slate urchins and a couple turkeyfish.

**KUR-RJ-63** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0928 hrs     28° 23.127'N                  178 21.089'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, southern ocean reef terrace and spurs-and-grooves, 2
transects, depths 45-58 feet, 10/5/00*

This site is located off the south ocean reef, just to the west of Green
Island and consists of a series of broad spurs-and-grooves (buttresses)
separated by sand channels. Crustose coralline algae and live corals
(10% cover) make up the dominant bottom types on the tops of the spurs,
and thick rippled sand deposits fill the sand channels. *Echinostrephus*
bore holes were common. The sides of the spurs had many overhangs,
affording protection and additional habitat to some of the many kinds of
fish observed. *Pocillopora ligulata* and *Porites lobata* were the only
common corals at the site. Many of the former displayed bite marks on
the tips of the branches, and smaller *Pocillopora* suffered predation
from the crown-of-thorns starfish (*Acanthaster* scars), and one
starfish was seen feeding. Only 7 total species of corals were reported
including a gorgonian, *Acabaria*. There was no evidence of any
anthropogenic effects at the site.

# 

# **KUR-RD-64** 10/05/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 28^o^ 25.372' N, 178^o^ 22.036' W

Location: Lagoon.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Patch reef habitat with a large reef hole, adjacent habitat
> included rubble burrows and sand flats with occasional large massive
> colonies of *Montipora capitata* and rubble piles with various species
> of coral growing atop them.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Montipora*.
>
> Depth: 2 -- 20'.
>
> Coral: 15 - 20% live coral cover. Off the transect, some areas were 60
> -- 80% live cover of *M. capitata*. Documented ten species of stony
> coral. The dominant coral was *M. capitata* which composed the vast
> majority of the patch reef, lined the reef hole, and accounted for a
> number of massive colonies on the adjacent sand/rubble flat. Adjacent
> rubble piles often had *P. damicornis*, *P. ligulata* and ocassionally
> *M. turgescens* growing on them. A number of small areas adjacent to
> the patch reef were primarily composed of various encrusting and
> upright forms of *M. turgescens*. The reef flat was composed of rubble
> with *P. compressa*, *P. damicornis*, *P. ligulata*, calcareous algae
> and an occasional *P. elegans* colony.
>
> Other: Three Galapagos sharks followed the divers around, two of them
> were rather inquisitive towards the end of the dive. Documented a
> black leaf scorpionfish (*Taenianotus triacanthus*).

**KUR-RJ-65** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1155 hrs     28° 24.825'N                  178 19.677'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, shallow central lagoon pinnacle and reticulate reef, 2
transects, depths 0-15 feet, 10/5/00*

This site was located in the central west lagoon of the atoll and
consisted of a shallow pinnacle surrounded by dead coral, rubble, and
some sand deposits. The entire pinnacle may be an unconsolidated rubble
pile. There was little evidence of cementing by coralline algae, and
live coral cover was less than one percent. *Echinostrephus* urchin bore
holes were numerous, and fuzzy filamentous turf algae covered the
substrate. The entire system seemed to be in a state of erosion. Poor
water circulation at the site may be restricting coral growth. Only
three coral species were observed, with *Pocillopora damicornis* the
only common species. No anthropogenic disturbance was evident at the
site.

**KUR-RJ-67** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1700 hrs     28° 26.691'N                  178 21.073'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, back reef and adjacent coral heads, NW perimeter lagoon,
depths 0-10 feet, no transects, 10/5/00*

The site, recommended by the sediment team, is located on the back edge
of the perimeter reef in the northwest corner of the lagoon. Small waves
were breaking on the front edge of the reef and pushing water over the
reef crest past the back reef site and into the lagoon. Water clarity
was very high and substrates were all hard, 67% live coral cover and the
rest crustose coralline algae, with some stacks of rubble in shallow
depressions. Coral diversity was also high at 20 species, and two
unidentified *Porites* were collected for future identification. Three
species of *Montipora* were abundant, with *M. cf turgescens* the
dominant coral. Several species each of *Pavona, Pocillopora,* and
*Porites* were also abundant. A green turtle was observed nearby, and
fish diversity and abundance was also high. The exceptional biological
development of the site is likely attributed to the protection afforded
by the perimeter reef, its location on the leeward side of the atoll,
and the constant flow of clean ocean water washing over the reef. No
anthropogenic disturbance was evident at the site.

**KUR-Rr1** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0956 hrs     28.416101118N                 178.370937134W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, back reef and adjacent curling end or horn of the W
perimeter reef facing to S on N side of pass, 59 ft, ground-truthing &
coral collecting, 20 feet, 9/25/02, JM, MV, DS*

Normally inaccessible, the semi-protected back reef habitat consisted of
a series of disarticulated linear reefs forming a curl at the end of the
perimeter reef bordering the N boundary of the broad SW passage. Coral
coverage moderate, about 20%, and diversity moderate at about 10
species. Reef exposed to swells wrapping around the end or horn of the
reef into the lagoon. Dominant substrates were crustose coralline algae
and corals on elevated surfaces and sand and gravels in the deeper
pockets between the shallow reefs.

**KUR-Rrc2** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1015 hrs     28.416294937N                 178.372261850W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, back reef facing W, a short distance from previous site, 12
ft., 9/25/02, coral coring (1 core) and ground-truthing site, JM, MV,
DS*

*Porites evermanni* head was cored near outer edge of back reef.
Community was high in coral cover (50%) and diversity. All *Montipora
capitata* appeared bleached with some colonies dying. Base of larger
colonies still pigmented.

**KUR-Rr3 to 7 (Rrc3-7)** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1131 hrs     28.424441403N                 178.370073657W

  1145 hrs     28.429516667N                 178.36655W

  1156 hrs     28.431191450N                 178.366653870W

  1211 hrs     28.431558777N                 178.366070019W

  1223 hrs     28.432557072N                 178.365902218W
  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, several W & NW back reefs evaluated via short duration
snorkel surveys, 2-30 ft., ground-truthing site, 9/25/02, JM, MV, DS*

A series of short bounce snorkels in search of corals for coring and for
ground truthing of IKONOS imagery. Coral cover is generally high at all
sites with *Montipora capitata* severely bleached as well as some
*Pocillopora spp.* Small to huge (3-4m diameter) heads of *Pavona
duerdeni* were major components and reef builders in the outer back reef
environments were wave wash was consistent (a large sample from *Pavona
duerdeni* was collected). Crustose coralline algae dominated the reef
crest, and coarse sands and gravels dominated the floor of the back reef
between coral heads. Coral diversity is generally high at all W and NW
back reefs. Other corals consistently present included *Leptastrea &
Cyphastrea. Porites lobata* consistently dominated the reef flats and
upper margin of the back reef. *Pocillopora spp.* Also was dominant and
abundant in these environments. Blocks of what appeared to be karstic
carbonate beach rock were situated on the reef flat just in front of the
back reef, up to 4+ feet high. Coral cover averaged 60% throughout
including bleached corals that may later die.

**KUR-Rrc8** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1238 hrs     28.433928738N                 178.364598374W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, back reef for ground-truthing and major coral coring site
(4 cores), 1-10 ft, 9/25/02*

Four cores were taken from 3 of many large colonies of *Porites
evermanni* at the site, two cores from the top and another two from the
side in shallow water. Dominant coral were several large and many small
colonies of *Pavona duerdeni* in the back reef and *Porites lobata &
Pocillopora spp* on the rear of the reef flat. Sand and gravels covered
the floor of the back reef but crustose corallines dominated the
substrates between living corals. Coral cover averaged 65% in the
environment.

**KUR-Rrc9** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1054 hrs     28.435340238N                 178.369475019W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, W fore reef, ground-truthing and coral collecting site, 59
ft, 9/26/02,JM, MV, DS*

Site was off the W ocean reef slope during heavy winds and seas. Massive
spurs and grooves with the former steep and covered with numerous
*Pocillopora spp.,* mostly *P. ligulata, P. meandrina, & P. damicornis*
in that order. Grooves all filled with sand, aften rippled, most about
25 ft lower than the tops of the spurs.Live coral cover was about
40-50%. Crustose coralline algae was the dominant bottom cover but other
important reef builders were *Leptastrea purpurea &Pavona duerdeni.* A
large school of knifejaws and one large hapu'upu'u grouper were curious
and followed us around during the dive. Daria collected numerous coral
specimens for growth and calcification estimates. Boring urchins
numerous, but reef site still appears to be accreting.

**KUR-Rrc10** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1152 hrs     28.454728746N                 178.338417962W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, N fore reef, ground-truthing and coral collecting site, 53
ft, 9/26/02, JM, DS*

Very rough sea conditions hampered the dive and cut its duration. This
site very similar to the previous site, with coral cover at 35-40%.
Again spurs and grooves were broad, and steep with the grooves covered
with expansive sand deposits. Sand depth at about 55-60 ft with tops of
spurs at 25-30 ft. Same important reef builders as at above site.
Crustose coralline algae the dominant bottom type on the spurs. Reef
slope looks healthy and accreting faster than the multitude of boring
urchins are eroding it.

**KUR-Rrc11** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1439 hrs     28.389617004N                 178.322012651W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, S back reef and reef crest, ground-truthing and coral
collecting site, 15 ft, 9/26/02,JM, MV, DS*

Most of this site was dominated by shifting sand and gravels being
transported by wind currents and trade-wind chop (small waves). Corals
were common in depressions not being filled in with sand. The reef crest
was devoid of much sediment and corals were more common, about 10-20%
cover. What appeared to be large dead colonies of *Porites evermanni*
were highly eroded and a continuous line of them formed a raised step
separating the reef crest from the back reef.

Some very large heads of *Pocillopora ligulata* were present, and Daria
found a colony of *Montipora capitata,* a rare occurrence outside the W
back reef environments.

**KUR-Rrc12 & adjacent coral heads** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1620 hrs     28.416952697N                 178.287435902W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, E back reef, ground-truthing and coral coring site, (1
core), 59 ft, 9/26/02,JM, MV, DS*

Eastern back reef sites including visits to several large nearby coral
heads and microatolls of *Porites compressa & Porites duerdeni.* The
largest measured about 10m diameter and 3m high.

High abundance and diversity of corals along the back reef and numerous
large heads of *Porites & Pavona.* Water visibility was extremely high,
and sheets of encrusting *Porites lobata* carpeted the upper back reef
and reef crest. Coral cover averaged about 70% in this habitat. Crustose
coralline algae dominated the reef crest surfaces not covered with
coral, and the back side of a smooth-surfaced crustose coralline algal
ridge was clearly visible and healthy and growing. Coarse sand deposits
as a veneer over hard coral rock covered the bottom between elevated
coral heads in the back reef zone Coral core taken from large *P.
evermanni* head with its *top* only two feet below mean low water. Core
barrel was stuck in the head for nearly and hour, and the skeleton
appeared very dense.

**KUR-Rr13** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1700 hrs     28° 25.117'N                  178 20.753'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Kure Atoll, central deep lagoon, finger coral gardens near CREWS buoy,
1-35 ft., ground-truthing site, 9/26/02, JM, MV, DS*

Site of 2001 CREWS buoy revisited during our last dive of the day. In
shallow water mats of green algae were growing in the interstices of
dead finger coral which appeared to have died during the past year. All
of the *Pocillopora* heads on the reef crest were bleached as were a few
small patches in the finger coral thickets. At depth the finger coral
looked healthy. The floor of the holes between the thickets is carpeted
in fine white sand at depths of about 10m. The CREWS buoy survived the
year at its designated location nearby. The iron rudder of a shipwreck
was perched atop a coralhead, midway between the gardens and our last
site on the eastern back reef! How did it get there?

**2000 SUMMARY FOR KURE ATOLL**

As the northernmost atoll in the world (28N), we visited Kure with the
prospect of studying an atoll on the precipice of the "Darwin Point".
Instead what we found was a healthy growing atoll with diverse and
abundant coral assemblages. Virtually all spur-and-groove formations
were robust and with good coverage by actively growing reef builders.
Some lagoon reefs displayed exceptional coral development, reminiscent
of the coral gardens in Kaneohe Bay as they may have appeared 150 years
ago. Back reef environments also appear to support diverse and vigorous
coral growth, the best evidence that accretion of hard reef is occurring
in two directions: seaward at the spurs-and-grooves and lagoonward along
the back reefs. The atoll also supports unique fish and dolphin
populations, and monk seals also live there and may depend upon the many
lobsters that occupy well-circulated lagoon areas. Coral diversity was
as high as any other site except French Frigate Shoals. Water
temperatures at Kure also seemed to be warmer than what was felt at
nearby Midway, suggestive that the poorer state of the reefs at Midway
may be constrained by unfavorably low temperatures. Perhaps another way
to view Kure is that it is the northernmost atoll in the world
flourishes there for a good reason: the combination of temperature and
light constraints is still acceptable, if not optimal for atoll growth.
In fact Kure was in substantially better condition and health compared
to her nearest neighbor, Midway.

**LAYSAN ISLAND**

# 

# **LAY-RD-92** 10/14/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 25^o^ 46.812' N, 171^o^ 44.984' W

Location: Forereef, northwest side of island.

> System: Low Island.
>
> Habitat: Reef slope with small sand channels. Base of slope ended with
> a sand flat. Numerous small overhangs and holes near base of reef
> slope. Large amounts of calcareous and red algae.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 45 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: Roughly 30% live coral cover. Documented seventeen species of
> stony coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. A number of the
> large pocilloporid colonies were being overgrown by a red macroalgae.
> *Porites lobata* was the dominant coral; *P. compressa* was the next
> most abundant. *P. evermanni* was most common near the base of the
> reef slope. Two species of *Acropora*, *A. cytheria* and *A. nasuta*
> (possibly *A. cerialis*, collected specimens) were found in very small
> numbers at the base of the reef slope.
>
> Other: Numerous fairy lace bryozoans (*Reteporellina denticulata*)
> were found under overhangs and in the small reef holes near the base
> of the reef slope.

# **LAY-RD-94** 10/14/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 25^o^ 46.462' N, 171^o^ 45.056' W

Location: Forereef, west side of island.

> System: Low Island.
>
> Habitat: Spur and groove with a heavily eroded northern end which
> consisted of numerous caves, overhangs and large holes. The top of the
> spur was heavily wave-swept with few corals other than encrusting
> ones.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 45 -- 55'.
>
> Coral: 10 - 15% live coral cover. Documented fifteen species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. *Porites lobata* was
> the most abundant coral. *P. evermanni* was most common near the base
> of the spur and in the various large holes. Most of the coral species
> present were found on the sides of the spur or in the large holes seen
> at the northern end. A single specimen of *Balanophyllia* was found
> under on of the overhangs.
>
> Other: Numerous fairy lace bryozoans (*Reteporellina denticulata*)
> were found under overhangs and in the small reef holes. Lisa Wedding
> may have found an example of CLOD (a calcareous algae disease)
> affecting a coralline algae; photographed and collected samples. Large
> *ulua*.

# **LAY-RD-96** 10/14/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 25^o^ 46.707' N, 171^o^ 44.532' W

Location: Backreef, northwest side of island.

> System: Low Island.
>
> Habitat: Heavily eroded reef with numerous cracks, crevices, overhangs
> and holes. Northern end of the forereef contained a number of large
> reef holes filled with large coral colonies. Shoreward side of the
> back reef dropped off to form a large sand flat about 20' deep. The
> reef flat varied from less than 1' to 15' deep. Large amounts of
> calcareous and red algae.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and calcareous algae.
>
> Depth: 5 -- 25'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover on the reef flat. Documented
> nineteen species of stony coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa
> tuberculosa*. A number of the large pocilloporid colonies were being
> overgrown by a red macroalgae. *Porites lobata*, *P. evermanni*,
> *Fungia scutaria* and *Cyphastrea ocellina* were the most common
> corals seen at this site. A number of the *Pocillopora meandrina*
> colonies showed the characteristic rose color. Both *Monitpora
> flabellata* and *M. turgescens* were found at this site.

Other: Numerous fairy lace bryozoans (*Reteporellina denticulata*) were
found under overhangs and in the small reef holes. White-tip reef sharks
and large *ulua*. Numerous baby *mu*. A large female monk seal and her
pup shadowed the diver; at one point the pup became partially entangled
in a piece of marine debris (net) lodged in the reef, eventually
untangling itself.

**LAY-RJ-97** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1040 hrs     25° 45.899'N                  171° 45.098'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Laysan Island, SW ocean reef terrace and spurs-and-grooves, depths
40-63, 2 transects, 10/14/00*

The site is situated off the southwest corner of the reef, beyond the
depth of breaking waves, and at the time of our survey, in the
semi-sheltered lee of the island. The reef consists of massive spurs
with their tops at 35 feet and base at 65 feet, covered mostly with
crustose coralline algae and about 20% live coral. The buttresses were
not regular and uniform , and cracks or faults were visible in some and
large blocks of fractured buttress material lay at the base of some
buttresses. It is clear that heavy wave action or storms are responsible
for the damage. The blocks provide habitat for a variety of reef life
and add to the complexity of the habitat. The reef rock was riddled with
the bore holes of *Echinostrephus.* Large bosses of the crustose
coralline alga *Porolithon gardineri* were prominent on the crests of
some rises, and coral cover was also greater on elevated surfaces.
Rippled sand deposits extended beyond the base of the blocks and
buttresses at depths of about 70 feet. The most abundant corals were
finger coral (*Porites compressa),* lobe coral (*P. lobata*), and rice
coral (*Montipora capitata*). A total of 14 species were recorded at the
site, and there was no sign of any anthropogenic disturbance.

**LAY-RJ-99** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1252 hrs     25° 47.093'N                  171° 44.625'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Laysan Island, NW spurs-and-grooves, depths 15-55 feet, 2 transects,
10/14/00*

The survey site is located off the northwest corner of the reef,
extending from the tops of the spurs-and-grooves to their base. Beyond
these were extensive sand flats. Crustose coralline algae (*Porolithon)*
covered most of the spurs, except their upper surfaces where live coral
accounted for 60% of the substrate. Some of the spurs showed faults or
cracks, but for the most part the reef was intact and healthy. The
channels between the spurs were filled with cobbles in shallow water,
and transitioned to sand in deeper water. A few points and mounds were
located atop the spurs, and overhangs and small caves were abundant.
Corals achieved their highest abundance on the upper lighted surfaces of
the spurs, and a total of 18 species of coral were reported. *Porites
lobata* was the dominant species, and *P. compressa*, *Montipora
capitata,* and *M. patula* were also abundant. A rare undescribed
species (*Porites sp cf hawaiiensis*) achieved unusual abundance at the
site, mostly as small colonies in the shade or in holes. No
anthropogenic disturbances were evident at the site.

**LAY-RJ-101** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1616 hrs     25° 46.550'N                  171° 44.625'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Laysan Island, N wall of the shallow channel through the nearshore
reef, N third of W coast of island, depths 0-22 feet, 2 transects,
10/14/00*

The study site was situated along the north side of the small, shallow
channel through the western nearshore reef that gives way to the small
boat landing at the beach. The reef itself was diverse, including rocky
ledges and banks along the sides of the channel, rippled sand deposits
and isolated coral heads on the floor of the channel, and elevated reef
pinnacles and pillars on a platform mixed with cobble tracts. Closer to
shore the pinnacles fuse to form a continuous consolidated reef crest.
The pillars were covered with crustose coralline algae. The dominant
corals were *Porites lobata* on rocky flat surfaces between the pillars,
and *Montipora* spp. At the base of the reef in deeper water. The
undescribed *Porites* (*cf hawaiiensis*) was unusually abundant as small
colonies in cracks, holes, and other partially shaded habitats. A total
of 19 species were reported from the site, and live coral averaged about
60% cover. Large schools of surgeon fish were roaming through the site
during the survey. There were no noticeable anthropogenic stresses at
the site.

**LAY-Rrm1** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0940 hrs     25.774893379N                 171.743310303W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Laysan Island, N wall of the shallow channel through offshore reef into
embayment/lagoon, N third of W coast of island, depths 10-21 feet,
permanent 50m transect, 9/17/02, JM, MV, DS, JE*

Near same site as LAY-RJ-101 visited in October 2000, new permanent 50m
transect installed inshore (E) to offshore (W) near top outer edge of N
reef wall demarcating the wide shallow sand channel bisecting the
offshore reef from the embayment lagoon. Sand in channel fine with large
ripples. Coral community much diminished from what was observed in 2000,
with live coral covering less than 10% of the substrate. Fish schools
abundant and diverse, and fleshy algae monopolized hard bottom habitats.
Visibility about 35 ft. Entire transect was photo-quadrated. Perhaps a
large storm or *Acanthaster* outbreaks responsible for the coral
decline.

**LAY-Rr2 & Rrc3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1114 hrs     25.772748844N                 171.742499480W

  1225 hrs     25.771490553N                 171.743347291W
  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Laysan Island, W lagoon/embayment next to island, one ground-truthing
and one coral coring site where 2 cores collected close to one another,
10-15 ft, 9/17/02, JM & DS*

First look into the lagoon off west Laysan Island. This review is a
combined summary for 3 sites, one large and two small. Daria and I
snorkeled throughout much of the inner lagoon south of the channel
looking for suitable corals for coring. Many of the large *Porites spp*
coral heads were dead or partially dead, possibly the effect of recent
storm damage or predation. Other large coral heads were long dead and
eroded. Only a few coral heads (small *P. evermanni)* were intact and
suitable for coring. Lagoon varies in depth from 3-20 feet, with
southern portion of lagoon in better shape. Sand predominates closer to
the beach where a narrow boat channel allows passage to the S portion of
the lagoon. Fish populations were abundant and diverse. Guano
infiltration into the groundwater may be leaching out and coloring the
lagoon water green and slightly turbid via enhanced phytoplankton
productivity. Coral diversity is about 10 to 15 species, although
nothing but *Pocillopora &Porites* is common. Bottom of lagoon is fine
sand. Reef surrounding lagoon is elevated to mean low water but a
meandering narrow ribbon, affording only limited protection from long
period swells. Virtually all of it is covered with red crustose
coralline algae which appears thriving and healthy. A small patch of
encrusting, lobe and branching corals is the tentative site for a
shallow snorkeling transect.

**LAY-Rr4** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1441 hrs     25.754532997N                 171.742191204W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Laysan Island, S ocean reef shelf near SW corner of shallow reef and
island, ground-truthing survey, 45-55 ft, 9/17/02, JM, MV, DS, JE*

Shallow ocean reef off south coast of the island near its SW corner, the
bottom was composed of large slabs of reef rock sufficiently scoured to
round the corners and edges, and indicative of a past era of cataclysmic
destruction to the reef. Bottom relief was variable due to the slabs and
other small mounds and holes giving the reefs a varied bottom, with many
overhangs and small caves. Underwater visibility was poor, 30 ft, but
coral cover was moderate at about 25%. Coral species diversity low, and
few large coral heads. The reef is exposed to trade-wind swell, NW swell
and S swell which may explain the limited development of corals and
reefs at the site.

**2000 SUMMARY FOR LAYSAN ISLAND**

Despite lacking a lagoon or much protection from the detrimental effects
of wave action, Laysan surprisingly supported a relatively rich coral
fauna with good development along leeward coasts. The small back reef,
pass, and moat, near the western boat landing also helped to diversify
habitats and the number of coral species inhabiting them. Coral and reef
growth appear to be healthy at the present time. Of interest were the
records of table coral *Acropora* off Laysan, the northernmost island or
atoll in the NW Hawaiian chain that supports table corals.

**LISIANSKI ISLAND & NEVA SHOAL**

**LIS-A9** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

S-SW edge of Neva Shoal, 10-18-01, depths of 6-10m. (JM, DS; Cox: Laura
Johnson). GPS: 25.9437° N, 173.94560° W.

This site is located on the leeward fore reef terrace. It is dominated
by finger coral *Porites* *compressa* separated by mostly Halimeda sand
patches at shallower depth, and *Porites lobata* heads and sheets
bisected by rubble channels in slightly deeper depths. Total live coral
cover amounted to 70%, represented by a total of 21 species, the highest
number reported to date. Visibility was poor, up to 10m, and a strong
current was setting from the East, with a velocity of about 1 knot. A
50m transect (calibrated to the mm on one side and to m the other) was
paid out and videotaped (although the quality of the video is suspect ).
A white tip shark and a small grey reef appeared at the beginning of the
dive. Several Ulua were present throughout the dive. A few wide angle
photos of corals and reefscapes were taken. No cores were taken,
although a few suitable prospects were present -- the yoke on the tank
regulator was frozen, preventing the use of the corer. Of interest is
the presence of the rare coral *Pavona maldivensis*.

**LIS-A10** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

S edge of Neva Shoals, 10-18-01, depths of 1-9.5 m. (JM, DS; Cox: Laura
Johnson). GPS: 25.95233° N, 173.91269°W.

This site was at the tip of a linear reef projecting along an irregular
NW-SE axis. In deeper waters (7-10m) this site was characterized by
enormous hemispherical heads of *Porites evermanni* (mostly dead) and
*Porites lobata* (several live), with the former displaying columnar
morphology. At intermediate depths (3-6m) the bottom was dominated by
smaller coral heads, and dead corals covered by turf, fleshy and
coralline algae. At shallower depth, the entire crest of the reef was
colonized by healthy growths of coralline algae, both crustose and
branching. Waves were breaking on the crest, and a current was setting
from the east. Visibility was about 12m. A 50m transect was paid out and
videotaped. Hordes of Giant Trevally were following us everywhere. A
small grey reef was also present. A fragmented striated cone shell
(*Conus striatus*) was found at the probable entrance to an octopus den.
A large intact dead Leopard cone shell was also encountered. Coral cover
averaged 35%, interspersed by sand patches in deeper waters and algal
cover in shallower water. Corals numbered 16 species, with the mushroom
coral *Fungia scutaria* unusually abundant. A few wide angle photos were
taken. A spectacular sunset awaited us at the surface.

**LIS-A11** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Reef crest SE of Lisianski Island, 10-19-01, 1-3.5m. (JM, DS; Cox:
Laura Johnson). GPS: none taken, site approximately 100m offshore near
bend in shoreline)*

This site was a shallow elongated fringing reef crest with shallow sand
patches, running perpendicular to the shoreline and the direction of
prevailing wind and wave action. The reef was approximately 100m
offshore from the SE beach of the island. Small (one foot) waves were
breaking along the crest of the reef in about 0.5m of water. Bathymetry
was irregular within the 3.5m depth range at the site. Young Hawaiian
monk seals were frolicking in the water near our skiff and during our
snorkel. The adjacent shoreline was entirely white carbonate sand
beaches, with thick vegetation (*Scaevola* and *Tournefortia*) further
inland. Monk seals and one large green turtle were basking on the beach.
Some photos but no transects were accomplished. Water clarity was poor
(5-6m) and with a greenish tint, suggestive of high primary productivity
possibly subsidized by major influx of nutrients derived from seabird
guano.

Away from the reef crests the hard surfaces were covered in fleshy algae
or consisted of sand depressions that were partially covered with algal
mats. The reef substrates were thickly carpeted with dense mats of
fleshy and turf algae except in the turbulent crest zone. Dominant algae
included the red alga, *Asparagopsis taxiformis* and the green algae
*Neomeris sp,* and *Halimeda sp.* Coralline algae were concentrated on
the crests where surge and water turbulence kept the reef substrates
free of the algal mats. Other bare hard substrates consisted of dead
coral, some live coral and sand patches. Shallow sand channels bisected
portions of the reefs, and small boat access along the shoreline was
rendered difficult by the numerous irregular reefs. Only six species of
stony corals were reported at the site, with only the blue encrusting
stony coral (*Montipora turgescens)* abundant, the latter as plates and
encrustations.

**LIS-A12** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Quasi-sheltered pinnacles and reef pools, SE of Lisianski Island,
10-19-01, 2-7m. (JM, DS; Cox: Laura Johnson). GPS: 26° 03.867'N, 173°
57.545'W. 26.06445 N, 173.9590833 W*

This site was located about 200m east of the previous site (TC11) on the
shallow back reef terrace to the SE of Lisianski Island about 300m
offshore. Habitat consisted of mostly live coral pinnacles of irregular
size and shape scattered over a sand-covered bottom, with the pinnacles
accounting for more than half of the bottom cover. Live coral consisted
mostly of *Montipora turgescens* in a variety of colors (blue, grey,
brown), size (\<one cm to 3m), and shapes (encrustations, plates, knobs,
spires, and spindly tubes). These coral formations were remarkable for
their beauty and uniqueness, despite overcast skies and reduced
visibility. The only other common corals at the site were mostly
*Pocillopora damicornis* and to a lesser extent *P. ligulata.* Species
richness was low- only seven corals. Underwater visibility at the site
was less than 10m, with much of it suspended sand particles stirred up
by wind chop and surge. Other dead coral surfaces were covered with
algae although not as densely packed or carpeted as noted at the earlier
site closer to the island.

Monk seals were swimming in the water close by during our dive. Wide
angle and macro photography was accomplished during the dive. A 50m long
transect was paid out and video- taped during the dive. One coral
specimen (*Porites sp cf vaughani)* was collected.

**LIS-A13** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*fore reef terrace off the south side of Neva Shoals, very near sites
TC6 and TC9, 10-19-01, 6-9m. (JM, DS; Cox: Laura Johnson). GPS: 25°
56.766'N, 173° 56.754'W.*

We returned to this site to collect coral cores during the mid
afternoon. Two cores were attempted and one successfully retrieved: a 30
cm core of *Porites evermanni*, in several fragments but generally
complete. A second core of *P. lobata* could not be retrieved from a 30
cm drill hole because the approximately 20cm long core fell out in the
10 cm high subsurface void space or hole in the coral. Both corals were
photographed and plugged.

As for the coral community at the site, it was very similar to that of
yesterday's REA site nearby, except that the mushroom coral was much
more common at present site (A13).

**LIS-Rrm1** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1409 hrs     26.034934436N                 173.898631354W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, near shore dead coral & rubble mound, SW
side of island, new permanent 50m transect, 3-14 ft., 9/30/02, JM, MV,
DS*

This site is situated just offshore of the island, to the W of its
southern-most point, in 3-14 feet of water. Similar to other mounds
surrounding the nearshore of the island, including one surveyed in
October 2001, except that the plate-like growths of *Montipora
turgescens* were 90% dead, unlike the other site where they were 90%
alive. Mound composed of dead non-cemented standing and collapsed coral
approximately 5 to 10 ft off the bottom, a sand flat at 15 ft. Weather
completely flat during the time of the survey, but at other times waves
probably break on the crest of the reef. 50m transect line laid from
western center of mound SW to NE to eastern edge and towards the W side
of island. Double pin marking beginning of transect placed atop a high
spot on the mound, and subsequent pins placed at 5m intervals. Entire
transect photoquadrated. Total live coral cover about 10% with
*Montipora flabellata & M. turgescens* accounting for most of the
corals. Underwater visibility about 30 ft. No sea urchins but one spiny
lobster reported under a ledge.

**LIS-Rrc2** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1338 hrs     26.050624711N                 173.915330913W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, E linear reef floor, snorkeling site for
ground-truthing and coral collecting, 20-25 ft., 9/30/02, JM, MV, DS*

A brief snorkeling survey to ground-truth and collect coral samples for
Daria's dating and growth rate studies. Floor of reef adjacent to linear
reef at a depth of about 20 to 25 ft. and with live coral accounting for
about 50% of the substrate with dead coral encrusted with coralline
algae (40%) and sand depressions (10%) accounting for the rest.
Underwater visibility fair, about 30 ft. Collected coral was a small
column of *Porites evermanni* dislodged from the reef via kicking.
Abundant corals included *Porites compressa, P. lobata, & Montipora
spp.*

**LIS-Rrc3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1409 hrs     26.034934436N                 173.898631354W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, E linear reef slope and floor,
ground-truthing and coral & coralline algae collecting site, 20-45 ft.,
9/30/02, JM, MV, DS*

Full dive for ground-truthing and collection of samples for
calcification and dating studies. Floor of reef at about 50 ft and
consisted of white *Halimeda* sand in ripples. Reef slope was steep next
to the sand depression/channel, rising to within 20-25 ft of the
surface, and dominated by several species of *Porites.* Coral cover was
high, about 70% with crustose and erect forms of coralline algae and
sand accouting for the rest of the substrate. Coral diversity also high,
more than 15 species and bathymetric relief was high and variable.
Underwater visibility was about 30 ft. A spectacular coral site with
schools of small and large jacks and convict tangs.

**LIS-Rr4** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1555 hrs     26.033766741N                 174.007069731W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal W oblong pinnacle as part of the linear
reef complex, 15-51 ft., 9/30/02, JM, MV, DS*

Site concentrated on the S facing spur-and groove system and sand floor
at the base of an oblong shaped pinnacle that is part of the complex
linear reef system in the vicinity. Dominant cover was crustose
coralline algae and sand with live coral accounting for about 1% of the
bottom. Coral diversity was moderate and included *Psammocora & Pavona
maldivensis* heads. Underwater visibility was about 20 ft and there was
considerable surge at the site. Fleshy algae overlaid much of the
corallines and heavy suspension of particulates. Bathymetric relief high
and variable.

**LIS-Rrch5** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0923 hrs     26.034242486N                 173.885917625W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, E linear reef slope (possibly the E facing
fore reef of the shoal) and floor, ground-truthing, hyperspectral &
coral collection site, 20-65 ft, 10/1/02, JM, DS, AW, KA*

Spectacular coral development site, SE side of the shoal, very complex
bathymetric relief, coral cover 80% and coral diversity high. Only other
significant bottom covers were sand in a large semi-enclosed depression,
and crustose and erect coralline algae. Several hyper-spectral readings
taken of *Montipora capitata* at different depths. A few *Porites
evermanni* specimens collected for growth and aging studies. Tops of
some coral spires reached to within a 20 ft depth from a base of 55 ft.
Sand floor at a depth of 65 ft. *Montipora* dominated the deep slopes
and margin of floor while *Porites spp* dominated at shallower depths
especially above 35 ft. Only one sea urchin seen.

**LIS-Rrm6** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1429 hrs     26.063605088N                 173.959039497W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, near shore coral mound, E side of island,
4-19 ft., permanent monitoring & ground-truthing site, 10/1/02, JM, DS,
AW, KA*

Revisit of a reef near the blue coral mounds surveyed in 2001 off the E
side of the island. *Montipora turgescens* dominated the coral biota and
covered about 75% of the bottom. *M. flabellata & M. capitata* were also
abundant. *Pocillopora damicornis & Psammocora stellata* were the only
other corals reported at the site. Permanent transect laid from SE to
NW, from the center to the W side of the mound. Doubled first pins and
additional pins placed at 5m intervals. Entire 50m photo-quadrated.
Small lobsters, sap sucking nudibranchs (*Sacoglossan),* convict tangs,
goatfish, butterfly fish, and a few jacks. N sea urchins.

**LIS-Rr7** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1523 hrs     25.998157114N                 173.934907281W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, central shallow lagoon, linear rubble
reef, 3-8 ft., ground-truthing and seaweed collection site, 10/1/02, JM,
DS, AW, KA*

Only site in central shallow lagoon of Neva Shoal surveyed to date,
which is dominated by shallow depths and restricted visibility. We
stopped at a small set of rubble mounds projecting from a base depth of
7-8 ft to within 3 ft of the surface. All hard surfaces covered with
fleshy algae including *Halimeda* (not collected), *Martensia* (which I
gave to Daria as a present) and about 6 other species, mostly reds that
were collected. Except for the miniscule amount of rubble, all other
bottom areas covered in fine white sand, much in suspension. Linear
rubble reef oriented SSE to NNW.

**LIS-Rr8** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1636 hrs     26.041306826N                 174.009544383W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, W patch reef, ground-truthing & candidate
coring site, 0- 33 ft, 10/1/02, JM, DS, AW, KA*

Oblong patch reef with breaking waves near the ship's anchorage. Top of
reef is red crustose coralline algae which bares between breakers. Sand
and rubble channels surround the reef top which descends to crustose
coralline algae slopes and then to large hemispherical heads of *Porites
lobata & P. evermanni* some with branching growth forms. *Halimeda*
common. Sand flats surround the reef at a depth of about 45 ft.
Visibility poor, about 20 ft. and considerable wave surge. Possible
coring aborted due to a frozen drill. Large suitable *P evermanni* head
was the target. Numerous sea urchins. Coral cover about 50%, with
crustose corallines making up most of the remainder. Minor bleaching of
*Porites compressa & P. lobata.*

**LIS-Rrm9** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1000 hrs     26 04.642\'N                  173 57.884\'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, new 50m permanent transect, fringing reef
crest and slope, N of the island, 20-48 ft., 10/2/02, JM, DS, MV, BO*

Heavily calcified with corals and crustose coralline algae, this
submerged fringing reef crest and adjacent slope was selected for a 50m
permanent transect. Transect line laid from E to W across the shallow
crest with the final 20m down the wall and adjacent to the sand
depression at the back end. Front end double staked, and remainder of
line staked at 5m intervals. The entire line was photoquadrated.

Impressive coral cover (50%) and diversity (20 spp) on the reef, with
most of the corals low profile encrusting or small colonies, and some
foliaceous colonies. *Montipora spp, Pocillopora spp, & Porites spp* all
abundant. Remaining bottom covered with crustose coralline algae on the
crest, and sand dominating the depression adjacent to the walland cave.
Some of the *Montipora* showed minor bleaching, although coral community
looked healthy and non-bleached.

**LIS-Rrc10** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1330 hrs     26.041306826N                 174.009544383W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Lisianski Island/Neva Shoal, W patch reef, ground-truthing & candidate
coring site, 0- 34 ft, 10/2/02, JM, DS, MV, BO*

Return to previous site Rr8 to finish coring the selected coral.
Successful in extracting a 35 cm long core of *Porites evermanni.* Refer
to earlier notes on conditions at the site.

**MARO REEF**

# **MAR-RD-98** 10/15/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 25^o^ 25.138' N, 170^o^ 40.107' W

Location: Northwestern end.

> System: Reef Complex.
>
> Habitat: Reef slope with numerous overhangs, holes and small caves.
> Base of slope ended with a sand flat. Almost completely covered with
> live coral.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Montipora*.
>
> Depth: 45 -- 65'.
>
> Coral: 80 - 100% live coral cover. Documented twenty-six species of
> stony coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. *Montipora
> capitata* dominated the lower reef slope where it formed extensive
> overlapping plates. The upper reef slope had the highest coral species
> diversity. *Pocillopora* was the most abundant coral on the top of the
> reef. Two species of *Acropora*, *A. cytheria* and *A. cerialis*) were
> found near the top of the reef slope. *A. cerealis* formed numerous
> large tabletop structures. Large colonies of *Montipora studeri*,
> *Pavona duerdeni* and *Porites evermanni* were found near the top of
> the reef slope. Ahermatypic corals such as *Tubsatraea* and
> *Balanophyllia* were found under large overhangs and in caves.
>
> Other: Numerous fairy lace bryozoans (*Reteporellina denticulata*)
> were found under overhangs and in the small reef holes on the reef
> slope. A number of large *ulua* and *omilu* followed the divers
> around. A white-tip reef shark and a grey reef shark were seen near
> the beginning of the dive. Two live pearl oysters were found near the
> top of the reef. Featherduster worms were found under one of the
> overhangs.

# **MAR-RD-100** 10/15/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 25^o^ 23.987' N, 170^o^ 37.53' W

Location: Pinnacle, west side of the reef complex.

> System: Reef Complex.
>
> Habitat: Coral-covered pinnacle; reef slope with numerous holes and
> overhangs. Deep reef slope composed almost entirely of *Halimeda* and
> *Porites compressa*. A large cave complex was found near the top of
> the pinnacle.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites* and *Halimeda*.
>
> Depth: 20 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: 60 - 70% live coral cover. Documented twenty-four species of
> stony coral, the sand anemone, *Heteractis malu*, and two species of
> zoanthid. Documented only one large tabletop *Acropora* (*A.
> cytheria*) at the site.
>
> Other: Numerous fairy lace bryozoans (*Reteporellina denticulata*)
> were found under overhangs and in the small reef holes near the base
> of the reef slope. Living Triton's Trumpet, a large sea hare and a
> large manta ray swam by.

**MAR-RJ-103** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1036 hrs     25° 27.662'N                  170° 40.530'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, NW semi-sheltered lagoon linear reef, depths 10-56 feet, 2
transects, 10/15/00*

The site is located along the northwest end of the reef at the south
side of the tip of the western-most extension of the linear reef complex
of the atoll. The site is exposed to the open sea to the southwest, but
the linear reefs afford protection to the site in all other directions.
The site was visited at slack high tide and there were no currents.
However LANDSAT imagery of Maro suggests that strong currents pass along
the site from the east, forming a large eddy off the northwest end of
the reef. The site was a steeply sloping wall, descending to the south,
and giving way to the broad expanse of sand on the "lagoon" floor. Large
mounds of *Porites compressa* and mostly *Montipora capitata* were
scattered over the floor of the lagoon near the reef slope, the latter
forming impressive foliaceous colonies up to 2m across. The reef slope
was composed of solid living coral of mostly encrusting and branching
varieties, achieving 90% average coverage. Remaining substrates were
covered with crustose coralline algae, and some seaweeds (*Halimeda*),
especially at depth. In shallow water were found 3 table coral species
of *Acropora,* intermixed with 7 species of *Montipora,* and several
species of *Porites.* Branching forms were mostly several species of
*Pocillopora.* A total of 25 species of corals were reported at the
site, the most of any during the expedition, and the coral cover was
also the highest of any other site. The top portion of the reef
approached mean low water where small waves were breaking on the reef
crest. The substrates were mostly coralline algae in the surf zone, and
the reef was very porous with numerous subterranean passages, rooms, and
caves. No anthropogenic disturbances were evident at the site.

**MAR-RJ-105** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1617 hrs     25° 28.497'N                  170° 38.337'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, NW semi-sheltered lagoon pinnacle, depths 5-49 feet, 1
transect, 10/15/00*

This site is located at the top northwest corner of the atoll, just to
the south of a double linear reef complex. Similar to the previous site,
the south-facing slope was steep, descending to the floor of the lagoon
at a depth of 50 feet that was covered in carbonate sand. The reef was
robust showing solid reef carbonate, with 75% of the substrate covered
in live coral, especially at shallower depths. Encrusting species,
mostly *Porites lobata* blanketed the bottom flat surfaces at
intermediate depths while bracket-like growths of *Montipora capitata*
covered outcrops at the base of the reef slope. Large upright coral
heads of *Pavona duerdeni,* jutted upright at intermediate depths, and
swerving as sentinels for the reef. Some of the *Pavona* heads were very
tall and robust and may be a major contributor to reef growth. In deeper
water near the floor of the lagoon, veils of *Halimeda* strands
descended down the slope. Windward of the sentinel coral heads the reef
crest is covered with robust coralline algae. Unusual growths or tumors
were seen on some otherwise healthy encrusting colonies of *Porites
lobata* , and were photographed for later analysis. A total of 18 coral
species were seen at the site. The reef was healthy and with no signs of
any anthropogenic stresses.

**MAR-T12** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Maro Reef, NW ocean facing side, 9-20-01, pinnacle reef, 3-15m (JM, LP,
DS, Cox: Davis) GPS: 25° 27.701'N, 170° 39.337'W

The survey site consisted of a rounded ocean pinnacle reef, but
reminescent of spur and groove systems, separated from the main linear
reef system off the NW side of the atoll reef. Water depths at the base
of the pinnacle exceeded 20m but water visibility was poor, less that
10m, due to fine particulates in suspension. The base of the pinnacle
was surrounded by massive rounded buttresses and very narrow deeply
incised grooves, the latter cutting to the base of the reef. The
buttresses and slopes of the reef descended at an angle of about 20
degrees from horizontal. Live coral cover exceeded 75- 80% on all
surfaces except the crest of the reef near sea level and the shaded
scoured sides of the groves. The dominant coral species was *Porites
lobata* and other several other *Porites* were also common, along with
several species of *Montipora* and *Pocillopora.* A total of 19 species
of corals were recorded including one soft coral, *Palythoa
tuberculosa.* The reef crest was dominated by crustose coralline algae,
and the floor of the ocean beyond the base of the reef was covered in
sand. Reef fish and especially sharks and jacks were common. Two fish
transects were video-taped, and photos taken.

**MAR-T13** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, W ocean facing side, 9-20-01, patch reef, 2-14m (JM, LP, DS,
Cox: Davis) GPS: 25° 26.966'N, 170° 39.681'W*

The survey site consisted of an ocean patch reef off the west side of
the atoll, similar in morphology and cover to the previous site, except
that the slopes of the reef were steeper and the massive buttresses were
replace with mini-canyons with steep walls separated by generally flat
floors. Again water visibility was poor about 10m. At greater depths
(below 10m), the slopes of the reefs lessened to the base of the reef
that was surrounded by thick, rippled sand deposits at 20m. Again live
coral dominated the bottom in all reef surfaces (covering in excess of
85-90% of the bottom) except the crest of the patch reef, awash at the
time of our survey. Coralline algae again covered the reef crest, and
several corals were co-dominants on other reef surfaces: sheets and
lobular heads of *Porites lobata,* finger coral platforms of *P.
compressa,* and encrustations and plates of *Montipora patula and M.
capitata.* Of interest was the presence of two species of *Acropora* and
a total of 19 coral species at the site. Reef sharks and jacks were
especially common and curious, and fishes were generally abundant. Linda
surfaced ahead of Jim and Daria amid a group of several sharks. Two
video transects also completed and photos taken.

**MAR-T14** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Maro Reef, SW ocean facing side, 9-20-01, elongated patch reef (JM, LP,
DS, Cox: Mokiao) GPS: 25° 25.818'N, 170° 37.868'W

The survey site consisted of a linear patch reef of the southwest ocean
facing side of the atoll. Again the base of the reef was surrounded by
sand flats and water visibility was poor, about 10m. The floor of the
south ocean-facing side of the reef was at a depth of about 13m, but the
back or north side was shallower, about 10m. The top of the patch reef
was complex, with an elevated margin of mostly live coral with coralline
algal caps where the reefs were awash, surrounding a depressed basin of
mostly sand and some rubble deposits with scattered live coral heads.
The outer walls of the reef were covered with corals, with essentially
the same co-dominants reported at the previous site. Sheets of *Porites
lobata* formed valleys between elevated and sometimes steep-sided
colonies of the same species plus *P. compressa* and *P evermanni.*
Again several species of *Montipora* were abundant forming encrustations
and plates. Overall, coral cover exceeded 80% (Daria's estimate = 50%),
and 19 species were reported. Fish abundance was high, including jacks,
sharks, and a huge school of roving convict tangs swirling around us on
top of the reef. The video camera was out of tape, and only photos were
taken.

**MAR-T15** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, N ocean facing side, 9-21-01, depth 3-15m, near northern end
of major linear reef, W side (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage) GPS: 25° 29.834'N,
170° 37.503'W*

Survey was accomplished near the west side of the elongated ribbon-like
linear reef that extends several km north from the central reef complex
and lagoon of the atoll. Wave action was trade wind generated swell
striking the opposite (east) side of the reef and sweeping over the
submerged reef crest. Dive site was semi-protected from the swell
especially at depth, providing an open lagoon habitat. Water visibility
was 20 25m. Geomorphology of the reef includes a crest about 1m below
sea level, and covered with mostly live corals and crustose coralline
algae. The steepness of the slope of the western facing reef increased
with depth, affording the site complex bathymetry and a variety of reef
habitats. The slope bottoms out at 15-18m, with the lagoon floor
alternating between sand depressions and coral mounds and platforms.
Corals were well developed at the site and dominating reef substrates at
intermediate depths and averaging slightly less than 50% cover. A total
of 14 species were reported with several species each of *Porites,
Pocillopora,* and *Montipora* achieving abundance. Also the mushroom
coral *Fungia scutaria* was unusually common. Two video transects were
accomplished at the site, and numerous photos, hyperspectral signatures,
and one coral core were taken. Reef fishes were numerous including
convict tangs and sharks.

**MAR-T16** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, N ocean facing side, 9-21-01, depth 3-15m, N major linear
reef, W side (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage) GPS: 25° 30.497'N, 170° 37.838'W*

This survey was accomplished north of the previous site along the west
side of the same elongated major linear reef, but near the tip of the
reef, opposite a large rocky reef mound projecting above sea level
("Maro Island") in the surf zone near the eastern margin of the reef..
Despite the similarity of habitats, the present site showed major
differences from the previous. Swell from the east was sweeping over to
the west side with many smaller waves crossing the reef without
breaking. Strong wave set up currents were pouring over the top of the
reef, and the crest of the reef must have been more submerged (2m
vis-à-vis 1m) compared to the previous site. Consequently the western
reef was less "lagoonal" and with higher "oceanic" water visibility in
excess of 25-30m, and with very little accumulating sediments.

The reef itself displayed a more robust appearance with few corals
projecting much above their neighbors. Bathymetric relief was less that
one meter, and the reef slope displayed a sigmoid profile with the
steepest sector at mid-depth and the top and bottom more gradually
sloping. Numerous holes and crevices characterized the bottom. Coral
cover was moderate to high, averaging more than 50%, and corals were
zoned with respect to depth and exposure. In shallow, *Montipora spp,
Pavona duerdeni,* and *Pocillopora* *spp* were abundant, at mid depth
*Porites lobata* dominated the bottom surfaces, while a mixture of
*Porites compressa, P. evermanni, Fungia scutaria,* and *Pocillopora
ligulata* were more abundant. *Hydrolithon* spp., both branching and
encrusting, were very abundant. Substrate also included large beds of
*Halimeda*, sometimes mixed with turf algae. It appears that greater
exposure to northern and northwest swell is partly responsible for the
more robust nature of the coral community and reef as a whole. A total
of 14 species of corals were reported at the site.

As with the previous site, reef fish including sharks and trevallies
were numerous and curious, and followed us around all the way to the
boat. Again, mushroom corals were unusually abundant. Two video
transects and many macro and wide angle photos were taken at the site.
Several hyperspectral readings were accomplished before the GER
batteries died off.

**MAR-T17 (CREWS)** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Maro Reef, W central lagoon patch reef, 9-21-01, depth 0-8m, at NMFS
CREWS data buoy (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage) GPS: 25° 26.791'N, 170° 38.037'W

This survey was accomplished at the NMFS Honolulu Lab oceanographic data
buoy installed the previous day at the site, in the central west lagoon.
The site is very sheltered from heavy wave action approaching from any
direction. However, water visibility was very poor, only 2-5m, with
visibility increasing with depth. The site appears to be depositional
with the sandy floor covered with very fine sediments, easily
resuspended. A combination of high turbidity, sediment deposits, and
suboptimal circulation is restricting coral development and variety.
Only 10 species were reported at the site with only *Porites compressa*
abundant. The corals *Montipora capitata* and *Porites lobata* were also
common. Total live coral cover averaged about 5% with some local
concentrations approaching 10%. Both a permanent transect and
biodiversity inventory were accomplished at the site, although the fish
team declined to don SCUBA and conduct their fish transect surveys.

The permanent transect is 50m long and stretches along the slope of the
small patch reef to the north of the buoy. Stainless steel stakes anchor
the alignment and location of the transect, The photoquadrats were taken
along the transect line where live coral achieves its highest abundance,
approximately at a depth of 2m plus or minus a meter. About 36
photoquadrats were taken and video footage along the permanent line.

**MAR-T18** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, SSW ocean-facing side of atoll, S tip of reef, 9-22-01,
depth 2-17m, linear patch reef (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage) GPS: 25°
25.931'N, 170° 39.066'W*

Survey site consisted of an offshore patch reef on the south-south west
side of the atoll, seaward of the major linear reef system enclosing the
lagoon. Wind chop was moving offshore due to strong trade winds from the
northeast. Water motion and resuspension of fine particulates did not
permit good visibility at the site which was limited to about 10-12m.
Nevertheless, coral cover (75%) and diversity (14 species) at the site
was and high, and corals exhibited vertical zonation on the reef.
Bathymetry and geomorphology of the reef was complex, with steep sided
coral heads (*Porites lobata, P. compressa)* and pillars (*Pavona
duerdeni)* interspersed with more flat expanses of hard reef. At depth
other corals were mounds, plates, and platforms (*Porites compressa,
Montipora spp)* over a broad plane with sand deposits, especially in
depressions and on the floor of the reef. Tumor-like growths were noted
on otherwise healthy encrusting colonies of *Montipora tuberculosa,*
consisting of bulbous, white hair-like protrusions on the surface of the
colonies. The shallowest portions of the reef was the hard crest, nearly
awash during our surveys, and covered with many rose corals
(*Pocillopora spp*) and abundant coralline algae. Reef fish populations
were abundant, including large jacks. Of interest was the presence of 3
triton's trumpet (*Charonia)* that were likely mating. Two video
transects were completed, and numerous photos were taken.

**MAR-T19** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, S ocean-facing side of atoll, W side of reef, 9-22-01, depth
1-10m, patch reef (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage) GPS: 25° 25.500'N, 170°
36.666'W*

Survey site consisted of another patch reef off the south side of the
atoll, and somewhat

in the lee of the linear reefs enclosing the lagoon about 2 km to the
north. Reef geomorphology was similar to the previous site with the reef
crest dominated by rose corals and coralline algae, high coral cover on
the complex habitats of the steep slope, and the sand patches and coral
mounds at the base of the reef. Pillar like corals were common including
*Porites lobata, Porites compressa,* and *Pavona duerdeni.* Of interest
was the unusual abundance and growth forms of *Psammocora stellata* and
*Pocillopora damicornis,* both at depths of 5-10m. Coral cover was high
(75%) and diversity was high (17 species). Large plate like growths of
*Montipora* were also common at the base of the pillars, bottom of the
reef slope, and back side of the patch reef which was observed via
snorkeling by DS. Underwater visibility was slightly better than the
previous site, about 15m. Two video transects were completed, numerous
photos, and some hyperspectral signatures were recorded.

**MAR-T20** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, S ocean facing side of atoll, SW end of linear patch reef,
9-23-01, depth 3-13, (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Sage) GPS: 25° 21.418'N, 170°
33.097'W*

Site consisted of a steeply sloping patch reef on the south side of the
atoll. The crest of the reef was at a depth of about 3 m, and covered
with dense populations of *Pocillopora* branching corals on a substrate
of mostly coralline algae. The steep upper slopes were dominated by
large sheets of *Porites lobata* and a few *Montipora* plates. The lower
slopes were more gradual and consisted of a mixture of Porites compressa
finger coral platforms and dead standing coral covered by turf algae and
encrusting corallines. The overall cover was 50%, varying from 25% on
the lower slopes to 75% on the top of reef. A total of 15 species were
recorded, including one zoanthid coral, Palythoa tuberculosa. A large
spiny lobster was spotted under a ledge, and sharks were numerous. Two
video transects were completed, but no algal surveys were accomplished
at this site. No hyperspectral signatures were collected.

**MAR-T21** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, S ocean facing side of atoll, E side of patch reef, 9-23-01,
depth 4-7m (JM, LP, DS,* *Cox: Sage) GPS: 25° 22.666'N, 170° 33.017'W*

Site consisted of a small, oval shaped ocean patch reef in shallow water
on the south side of the atoll. Deeper areas were flat rubble beds with
no live coral; the lower part of the slope consisted of large live and
dead coral heads, many of hemispherical shape, mostly *P.* *lobata*.
Between the live coral heads of the shallower slope, the substrate
consisted of hard bare carbonate rock covered by *Halimeda* beds and
turf algae. The coral heads varied in size from about 40 cm to 3 m in
diameter, but all showed some portion of uncolonized or dead surfaces.
Many of the coral heads where observations were ***possible*** showed
cavities and other void areas, as evidenced during the attempt to
collect two coral cores (neither of which were in fact retrieved
intact). Coral cover approximated 50% overall, although higher on the
crest of the reef. Number of species was 14, with *Pocillopora* spp.
dominating the shallower habitats, with *Porites lobata* dominating the
rest. In addition, a few of the large coral heads were comprised of
mostly dead *Pavona* *duerdeni*. Two video transects were completed, and
two cores retrieved. The first core was taken from a *Porites lobata*
head at a depth of 7m; the second core from a *Porites* *evermanni* head
at a depth of 6.5 m.

**MAR-T22** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Maro Reef, ocean pinnacle reef well offshore S side of atoll, 9-23-01,
depth 3-11m (JM, LP, DS, Cox: Mokiao) GPS: 25° 22.721'N, 170° 34.018'W
\[absent the fish team\]

The survey site was located at the eastern end of an elongated pinnacle
reef, along the southern linear pinnacle and patch reef system forming
the south side of the atoll, but in well mixed and quasi-oceanic waters.
Most of the top of the pinnacle was flat and in shallow water (3-5m) and
covered with sheets of the coral *Porites lobata* and branching rose
coral *Pocillopora meandrina,* with only a few contorted pillars and
points covered with coralline algae and jutting upwards, close to sea
level and attracting breakers. Sonic readings indicated the base of the
reef was at a depth of 24m, and that the slopes below the crest were
gradually to moderately steep. The reef has the character of a high
energy system, subjected to heavy wave action during storms and high
waves, and bottom relief was essentially low profile. There were also a
few cavernous holes in the top of the reef, where plate-like growths of
*Montipora* were growing luxuriantly. Deeper and steeper reef slopes
were dominated by a mixture of live coral, rubble, and probably greater
concentrations of finger coral. The points off the top of the reef were
aggregating fish populations of many species. Overall, coral cover
averaged about 67%, and particularly on top where cover was higher. A
total of 14 species of corals were noted. Despite the high coral cover,
intact colonies were never completely covered in live tissue, suggesting
repair or secondary colonization by the host coral. No transects were
laid or fish surveys completed during the dive. Fish team surveyed near
the site on the following day.

**MAR-T23** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Maro Reef, patch reef, NE lagoon, 9-24-01, depth 1-12m (JM, LP, DS, Cox:
Mokiao) GPS: 25° 25.350'N, 170° 32.179'W

Site consisted of a northeast patch reef near the windward surf zone and
edge of the lagoon. It was not possible to anchor near the front edge of
the reef in the surf, and so the site was moved to the leeward (SW)
side. Strong NE trade wind generated swell was washing over the reef and
through gaps or passes in the reef, maintaining a high energy
environment on the reef crest and re-suspending fine particulates and
sediments. However, below depths of 5m the reef is protected from
turbulence, and the environment is more depositional. The reef displayed
a sigmoid profile with the reef crest mostly of crustose coralline algae
and branching corals. The reef slopes were generally steep and dominated
by plate and sheet corals. Finger-coral, sediments, and *Halimeda* mats
dominated the deep bottom environments. Of interest was the common
occurrence of the gooey red alga, *Gibsmithia.*

Corals were not abundant, averaging about 25% cover, with sediment
stress the likely causative factor. Corals were locally more abundant in
shallow water, competing with crustose coralline algae as the dominant
bottom type. The most abundant corals were *Porites lobata* and
*Pocillopora meandrina* on the tops of the reef, *Montipora capitata*
and other *Montipora* at mid-depth, and *Porites compressa* in deeper
water. Large but mostly dead heads of the two *Porites* were common,
including pillar like heads. A total of 14 species were reported at the
site. Two video transects were completed. Marine debris was quite
conspicuous, snagging and killing or injuring many corals.

**MAR-T24** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*Maro Reef, NE lagoon back reef, **9-24-01**, depth 0-4m (JM, LP, DS,
Cox: Mokiao) GPS: 25° 25.993'N, 170° 33.660'W*

The second survey site of the day was the shallow back reef environment
lagoonward of the broad reef flat with its top at mean low water level
off the windward northeast side of the atoll. Surf was breaking along a
long stretch off the seaward side of the reef, pumping water over the
reef, suspending sediments, and adding turbulence to the environment.
Just to the SE was an open section through the windward reef where swell
and wave action was stronger, and small surf was refracting around to
the NW and breaking on the edge of the reef flat. The top of the reef
was dominated by crustose coralline and turf algae, interspersed with
small and shallow sand patches. Corals were confined to the back edge of
the reef and in the surrounding sand terrace, beginning at a depth of
about 34-5m. A few large isolated coral heads of *Porites lobata* and
*P. compressa* formed columns and domes nearby in the sand. Coral cover
is difficult to estimate given the narrow band where corals were found,
but generally it varied from 25 to 50%. A total of 10 species of corals
were reported a the site. Two unusual *Montipora* were reported,
including one unidentified species collected by Daria, and another
platelike species resembling *M. capitata.* The first was collected for
additional analysis. Two video transects were completed and 12 GER
hyperspectral signatures were collected. Again, marine debris was
conspicuous at the site, including near the transects. On our way to the
third dive site, additional marine debris was seen in the central lagoon
as evidenced by a round orange float.

**MAR-T25** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Maro Reef, linear patch reef, N edge of lagoon, 9-24-02, depth 2-9m (JM,
LP, DS, Cox: Mokiao) GPS: 25° 26.414'N, 170° 34.717'W \[fish team
absent\]

This site consisted of the lagoon (south) side of an elongated patch
reef or a portion of the linear reef system that serves as the
demarcation line for lagoon and oceanic environments along the central
NE windward side of the atoll. The last line of windward, trade wind
generated surf was breaking on the front of our study reef. Beyond to
windward were several more lines of surf breaks, each delimiting the
location of patch and pinnacle reefs that grow shallow enough to cause
surf to break. In a sense this series of reefs serves as a developing
perimeter reef system not yet coalesced to serve as an effective barrier
protecting the lagoon. As a consequence, wave action wreaks havoc in the
lagoon, knocking down finger coral and creating windrows of coral
rubble, and constantly stirring up sediments in the quasi lagoon.
Between the gaps in the reef are steep chutes where large quantities of
*Halimeda* sand is being transported lagoonward. Elsewhere the patch
reefs serve as barriers against sediment transport off the windward
sides, and serving to protect corals and reduce sediment re-suspension
off leeward sides.

The tops of the reef is dominated by crustose coralline algae and turf
algae and a few isolated *Pocillopora* rose coral heads. Corals are
concentrated on the back slopes, primarily branching (*Pocillopora,
Psammocora, Porites compressa)*, plate-like(*Montipora, Pavona
duedeni)*, and encrusting forms of corals (*Montipora, Porites,
Leptastrea, Cyphastrea).* Some sheet coral and finger coral (*P. lobata
& compressa,* respectively) were growing as coral heads elevated above
the sand floor further lagoonward of the back wall. Marine debris was
again conspicuous. Photos were taken

and one GER hyperspectral signature of the sand bottom was collected.

**MAR-Rrcm1** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0944 hrs     25.357855881N                 170.495292093W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, SE ocean-facing patch reef exposed to trade-wind swell,
27-61 ft, new 50m permanent transect, ground-truthing, and coral
coring/collection site, 9/15/02, JM,MV, DS, JE:*

SE perimeter of Maro Reef exposed to moderate wave action and winds.
Underwater visibility poor, about 15 ft. 0.2 knot surface current
setting W at site. Transect laid E to W starting 15m in front of skiff
and Trimble GPS recorded site position. All 50m photoquadrated. Coral
diversity moderate and diversity moderately high. Dominant coral was
sheet like growths of *Porites lobata.* Small colony of *P. evermanni*
collected for growth and dating studies. Reef above 25 ft was
consolidated crustose coralline algae and lobe coral. Reefs below were
fingercoral dominated, and branching forms of *Hydrolithon/Porolithon.*
Coral cover about 40-50%. Base of reef at 50-70 feet and covered with
sand deposits.

**MAR-Rr2** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1145 hrs     25.354559328N                 170.523273096W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, S ocean-facing patch reef, less exposed to trade-wind swell,
17-45ft, ground-truthing and DACOR site, 9/15/02, JM, MV, DS, JE:*

Similar to previous site except that water clarity much diminished to
about 6 feet, and less swell at site, and stronger surface current
setting W at site (0.5 kt). Coral cover about 40% and diversity
comparable to previous site, with *Porites lobata & Pocillopora spp* the
dominant species. Reef consolidated and dominated by crustose coralline
algae and live coral in shallow water, and with fingercoral and
branching coralline algae more common in deeper water.

**MAR-Rr3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1306 hrs     25.348513754N                 170.535392894W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, S shallow ocean-facing linear reef, 100m W of its crest &
wave action, 10-22 ft, ground-truthing site, 9/15/02, JM & DS:*

Similar to the shallow habitats at the two previous sites: coral cover
about 30-40% in shallow water, dominance of lobe coral *Porites lobata*
and branching *Pocillopora,* poor visibility (10 ft), and swell and
currents from the east. A sea hare *Aplysia* was seen under the skiff in
active feeding mode.

**MAR-Rrm4** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0949 hrs     25.46114794N                  170.68019849W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, tip of NW linear reef, on S side, 29-44ft, permanent 55m
transect, completely photoquadrated, 9/16/02, JM, MV, DS, JE*

Similar and close to site RJ-103 visited in 2000, except more robust and
less protected from swell, and well developed spur-and-groove formations
facing W and SW.

Very high coral cover and diversity with *Porites lobata* dominant in
sheets, and *Montipora spp, Porites compressa, Pavona duerdeni,
Pocillopora spp, Leptastrea, & Palythoa* all abundant, and averaging 70%
live coral cover. Reef is accreting and healthy with crustose coralline
algae dominant in shallow with more branching forms increasing with
depth. Sheets of *Porites lobata* covers most available surfaces and
extends over finger coral at depth. Water visibility much higher than S
or E sites although there were pockets of water turbidity from
particulates and perhaps fine carbonates (meso-scale wake eddy in
LandSat image of Maro?).

**MAR-Rr5** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1129 hrs     25.460181802N                 170.670706365W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, near tip of NW linear reef, more than one km E of tip,
ground-truthing site, 15-45 ft, 9/16/02, JM, MV, DS, JE*

Near SE bend in the NW elongated linear reef near its western tip. Site
exposed to wave action crossing gaps in the reef from the N. In shallow
habitat, massive, robust spurs-and-grooves form the edges of the reef,
facing or pointing to the SW. High coral cover on all elevated surfaces
dominated by lobe coral, but several other genera also abundant,
especially *Montipora, Pocillopora, & Leptastrea.* Further to the SW, a
second group of submerged spur-and-grooves run parallel in a SW
direction enclosing some sand depressions. Beyond the second S&Gs, the
reef descends gradually to about 50 ft, with coral heads and sand
deposits dominating the bottom. Finger coral and lobe coral marginally
dominant, although stands of *Montipora* are also very abundant. Despite
high coral cover of about 60%, few of the core-able coral species were
thick or elevated, and suitable specimens were not found. The stout
table coral, *Acropora humilis,* recorded and photographed at the site,
a new record for Maro Reef

**MAR-Rr6** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1611 hrs     25.461244489N                 170.681478865W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Maro Reef, beyond the tip of the NW linear reef at the end of the
breaker zone, 128m W of site MAR Rrm1, directly at the tip of the reef,
S side, 30-65 ft, 9/16/02, JM, MV. DS*

Extreme submerged tip of the very elongated NW linear reef in a rip
channel between two spur-and-groove fields pointing SW with the reef
crest to the N and beyond that a continuous series of spurs-and-grooves
pointing N to NW. Rip current ran through channel during our adfternoon
dive averaging about 0.5 kt and increasing to one kt by the end of the
dive. Sides and crest of spurs were coverer with coral to the base of
the reef crest. Lobe coral dominant but several other genera also
abundant and coral cover averaged about 50%. Bottom of the rip channel
was covered with gravels, pebbles, and cobbles, but no fine sand,
suggestive of a continuously rigorous wave regime at the site. Great
numbers of large fish at the site, including large jack trevallies,
Galapagos sharks, a few eagle rays, and butterfly fish.

**2000 SUMMARY FOR MARO REEF**

With only a few dives accomplished at Maro, it is hard to draw any
conclusions. Corals and coralline algae were healthy, diverse, and
contributing to active reef growth at the two sites we visited, and the
same was concluded at the other two sites by the other REA team.
However, the *Rapture*-based survey covered only 4 leeward reefs,
protected from the inimical effects of trade-wind generated wave action.
In contrast, most of the eleven *Cromwell*-based sites were accomplished
along windward reefs, and reef conditions were less favorable.
Visibility was poor, currents strong, wave action severe, from both the
northeast tradewind swell and large northwest swell. The lack of a
coherent perimeter reef around most of Maro exposes the reefs and
especially the lagoon to the punishing effects of wave action from
virtually any directions. It is difficult to predict whether Maro is
actually catching up to become a full-fledged atoll with coral islands,
or is barely hanging on as only a reef on the brink of drowning.
Nevertheless, the variety and luxuriance of corals were spectacular at
especially the first site, and ranks as the author's best coral dive in
the Hawaiian Islands. More surveys at Maro will reveal whether
conditions at the two study sites are representative of the atoll as a
whole.

**MIDWAY ATOLL**

# **MID-RD-66** 10/06/00 Jim Maragos

GPS: 28 26.146'N, 178 22.352'W

Location: Outside, south of Sand Islet. Site is locally called the Fish
Hole".

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Eroded spur and groove habitat full of holes and overhangs.
> Surrounded by rubble and sand flats.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and calcareous algae.
>
> Depth: 45 -- 50'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented eleven species of
> stony coral. *Porites lichen* was the most common coral.
>
> Other: Lots of cleaner wrasses and juvenile cleaners. Spotted one
> *hapu'u*, one *kahala*, and one *ulua*. Large schools of goatfish,
> some with *ta'ape*. Documented boarfish and knifejaws under many of
> the overhangs. Large *kumu* were often found sitting motionless in
> small depressions. Unusually large amount of colorful Xmas tree worms
> (*Spirobranchus* sp.) burrowed into the edges of the overhangs.

**MID-RJ-69** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1110 hrs     28° 12.627'N                  177° 25.521'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, spurs-and-grooves, SW ocean perimeter reef, depths 22-56
feet, 2 transects, 10/6/00*

The site is located outside the south pass of Midway atoll on the ocean
side of the southwest corner of the perimeter reef, within the
spur-and-grooves of the reef. The spurs were variable in size and shape,
some contorted, and the sand channels ranged from narrow, twisting, wide
and incomplete. Corresponding habitat complexity was very high with
numerous ledges, overhangs, caves, rooms, pillars, and holes. Virtually
all surfaces were covered with smooth coralline algae, but with very low
coral cover, less than 5%. A few corals (*Pocillopora, Porites)* were
bleached from unknown causes, perhaps *Acanthaster* predation. Some
larger *Porites lobata* colonies had suffered partial death, resulting
in fragmentation of the original colony into smaller units. The reef
appeared sick as a whole, but the causes are not clear. A total of 9
species of corals were reported, with *Porites lobata and Palythoa
tuberculosa* the most abundant. Visibility was excellent and fish
populations diverse and abundant. No obvious anthropogenic impacts were
evident, although one can question whether the long history of naval
occupation and warfare somehow contributed to the apparent demise of the
reef.

***MID-RJ-71** Jim Maragos*

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1414 hrs     28° 14.933'N                  177° 22.530'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, deep N lagoon patch reef, depths 3-30 feet, 2 transects,
10/6/00*

The survey site is a patch reef and adjacent coral heads in the deeper
north central lagoon of Midway Atoll. The patch reef itself was mostly
dead (10% live coral) above a depth of 10 feet, with substrates covered
with filamentous algae, rubble, and sediment. The most abundant corals
were *Porites lobata* and *Pocillopora ligulata.* However, below depths
of 10 feet coral cover increased dramatically to an average of 50%
around the flanks of the patch reef and on adjacent coral heads. The
vast majority was the finger coral *Porites compressa.* Many of the
larger finger coral colonies were fragmenting and spalling. It is not
clear why the shallower areas did not support more coral growth. A total
of 6 coral species were reported during the surveys. Again, the reef did
not appear healthy, but the reasons for the discrepancies are not clear.
Perhaps poor water quality and elevated temperatures in the surface
layer discouraged greater coral abundance. No other obvious
anthropogenic stress was evident at the site.

***MID-Rrm1: a & c** Jim Maragos*

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1550 hrs     28.244375813N                 177.323500935W

  1636 hrs     28.246306806N                 177.325265924W
  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, shallow back reef, E lagoon, 2 permanent 25m transect
resurveys (Yuko & Ranya, 2000), 5ft, 9/20/02, JM, MV, DS, YS*

Resurvey of Yuko Stender and Ranya Henson East Reef monitoring transects
established June 2000. Only the outer (a) and inner (c) 25m transects
were resurveyed and restaked at 5m intervals, 6 total stakes per
transect. Transect a was laid to the SW and transect c was laid to the
NW. The middle transect was not surveyed but lies seaward of transect c,
beginning at the next large coral head and should be laid to the SE.
Transects were laid parallel to the reef line, the first in the wash
zone of the back reef about 200m E of the second which was laid further
lagoonward of the wash zone. A large concrete block with 2 orange buoys
attached lies lagoonward of the second transect., which was in deeper
water (10 ft) compared to the first (5 ft). A large partially excavated
*Porites lobata* head and other corals. The first site was too turbulent
and shallow to use the photoquadrat frame. Instead photos were taken at
one meter intervals along the line at about a 0.5m height above the
line.

Yuko says the head was intact in 2000 and is much degraded and reduced
in size! She also noted that benthic algae were much more common and
some previous live corals are now dead and covered with algae. A cursory
look revealed only 8 total species, combining the two transects. Coral
cover averaged 10% at transect a and 5% at transect b. coral cover and
diversity were low, and both sites are exposed to considerable wave
turbulence. Water visibility was exceptional at both sites.

**MID-Rrc2 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1744 hrs     28.224313827N                 177.316802402W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, shallow back reef, E lagoon, coral coring and
ground-truthing site, 10 ft, 9/20/02, JM, MV, DS, YS*

Similar to the previous back reef environments but further to the SE and
almost due E on the perimeter reef. Coral cover was low but many species
concentrated on large live or dead *Porites* heads mostly *P.
evermanni.* Coral head selected for coring may have been one of the same
cored last year. Some raised portions at the base of the head were
bleached (vertical face).

**MID-Rrc3 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1055 hrs     28.230654105N                 177.425197374W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, NW fore reef with spurs and sand channels,
ground-truthing & coral collection site, 66 ft, 9/21/02, JM, MV, D*

NW ocean reef slope with spurs and sand channels, opposite the broad
opening through the perimeter reef. During the dive was an ebb tide with
turbid waters exiting the lagoon, reducing visibility to about 30 to 40
ft. Coral cover was sparse, less than one percent, and mostly *Porites &
Pocillopora.* Sharks were numerous, especially after coral specimens
were collected. Sand channels with ripples and *Dictyota* drifts moving
back-and-forth with the surge.

**MID-Rr4 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1203 hrs     28.204547632N                 177.423376090W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, S shallow fore reef, near SW corner of the reef,
ground-truthing site, 53 ft, 9/21/02, JM, MV, DS*

SW corner of the perimeter reef on the south side, shallow fore reef,
spurs and grooves with exceptional habitat diversity, with coralline
algae dominating all substrates. Underwater visibility 150 at beginning
of dive but dropping to 100 ft by end of dive. Apparently lagoon waters
exit to the S and around the point during an ebb tide from the NW gap in
the perimeter reef. Coral cover low, less than one percent but coral
diversity higher. Crustose coralline algae dominate all surfaces except
bottom of sand channels. Colorful and diverse reef fish populations.

**MID-Rrm5 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1511 hrs     28.260763186N                 177.345135502W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, NE shallow"blue" coral gardens in back reef, 5 ft depth,
permanent transect resurvey, 9/22/02, JM, DS, MV, YS*

Resurvey of permanent transect established by Yuko Stender and Ranya
Henson in June 2000. One original yellow stake relocated at each
transect, and concrete block located about 15m south of the head of the
first transect. Orange ball floats attached to a short line attached to
the concrete block. Transect ran parallel to the reef in a W to E
direction. Each 25m meter-long transect line ran from NW to SE.
Stainless steel pins installed at 5m intervals along the lines. The
lines were roughly 50m apart. Both 25m lines were entirely
photoquadrated.

Reef consisted of the shallow back reef with large flat-topped clusters
of the blue-colored coral *Montipora flabellata* and occasional *M.
turgescens, Pocillopora spp.* Coral cover was about 75% on the heads but
less than one percent on the surrounding substrate.

**MID-Rrc6 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1656 hrs     28.265367802N                 177.340250039W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, N shallow lagoon, within 100m of the perimeter reef,
karstic raised reef rock, 4 ft depth, also coral collecting site,
9/21/02, JM, MV, DS and YS*

Coral biota was similar to that of previous site. Dominant corals were
*Montipora, Pocillopora, & Porites.* Three coral specimens collected at
the top of the raised reef formation. Reef was approximately 4-5 feet
above the contemporary reef flat. Strong currents washed through
fractures and breaks in the reef. A new record for *Tubastraea coccinea*

**MID-Rrm7** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1656 hrs     28.265367802N                 177.340250039W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, E lagoon near border of shallow reef off N tip of East
Island, 30 ft., new permanent 30m transect, CREWS buoy site, 9/23/02,
JM, MV, DS*

E lagoon, to the W of the N tip of East Island, just beyond the edge of
the shallow shelf fronting the W shoreline of the island. CREWS buoy
anchored off two mostly small steep-sided reef pinnacles of dead
*Porites compressa.* Numerous small colonies of several species are
recolonizing the dead surfaces. Surrounding areas are fine non-rippled
sand with no visible reef life. Transect over first pinnacle was about
17m, plus 3m of sand, plus 10m over the top of the second pinnacle.
Crews buoy anchor within site of the pinnacles. Visibility about 80 ft.
Transect laid E to W from eastern-most side of larger, to western-most
side of smaller pinnacles. About 6 species of coral at the site, with
coverage of about 1-2 percent.

**MID-Rrc8 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1149 hrs     28.218676380N                 177.316046597W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, ESE back reef, E of East Island, coral coring site, 8 ft,
9/23/02, JM, MV*

Far E lagoon off the perimeter back reef fronting East Island, wave
action breaking outside but currents not strong at the coring site. Core
taken of *Porites evermanni* from the side rather than the top, the
longest core to date, nearly 50cm. *Pocillopora spp* were bleached, fish
plentiful, visibility about 60 ft, and coral cover about 1%. No time to
count species well. Core location right at transition from reef crest to
back reef.

**MID-Rr9 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1408 hrs     28.265853863N                 177.367190443W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, N shallow lagoon, at site of large complex of low profile
"blue coral" heads, 8 ft, ground-truthing site, 9/23/02, JM, MV, DS*

Picked from the IKONOS image, the coral heads were covered with
secondary growth of the blue coral *Montipora flabellata* and bleaching
colonies of *M. turgescens.* Many bleached colonies of *Pocillopora spp*
and many small colonies of several other rarer species. Large schools of
goatfish, butterfly fish (feeding on coral polyps) chubs, convict tangs,
and also present were hogfish, morwongs, papio, and many others. Large
stocky hawkfish in crevaces. An aesthetically pleasing site, but
bleaching should be watched. Coral cover on the elevated surfaces of the
coral heads was 50% and higher still on the creswts of the heads.

**MID-Rr10 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1625 hrs     28.277496739N                 177.366349743W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, N perimeter back reef, shallow encrusting coral garden, 6
ft, ground-truthing site, 9/23/02, JM, MV, DS*

At northernmost point of the perimeter reef, this back reef site showed
widespread bleaching of the dominant coral *Montipora capitata,* and
major bleaching of *M. turgescens & Pocillopora spp.*

Bleaching of *Porites spp* was not observed at this site (although later
at another site off the SW perimeter). Coral cover was 75% although
bleached *M. capitata* accounted for most of this. Some individual
bleached colonies measured 8 ft in diameter and 4 ft high. Some colonies
of the species appear to have died, although most are still alive. This
is a site worthy of monitoring, to see if the bleached colonies perish
or survive. The lower portions of many of the larger bleached colonies
still retained the characteristic brown color of this species in the
shade. Coral diversity moderately high. Again large numbers and species
of fish at the site.

**MID-Rr11 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1638 hrs     28.206565634N                 177.407202129W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, SW lagoon pinnacle cluster, 20 ft, ground-truthing site,
9/23/02, JM, MV, DS*

SW lagoon eroded pinnacle complex, mostly dead reef except for bleached
colonies of *Pocillopora spp* on elevated surfaces and widely spaced.
Considerable bioerosion of the reef framework which is likely stacks of
*Porites compressa*. Coral diversity was low and coverage less than one
percent.

**MID-Rr12***.* Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1638 hrs     28.206565634N                 177.407202129W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, SW perimeter back reef, highly eroded by sea urchins,
groundtruthing site, 10 ft, 9/23/02, JM, MV, DS*

SW corner of the perimeter, at the back reef where virtually all dead
coral surfaces are being eroded by several species of sea urchins:
*Echinometra mathaei, Echinostrephus acidulatus, & Heterocentrotus
mammilatus.* Most live corals were bleaching including all *Pocillopora
spp &* some *Porites evermanni.* Nutrient subsidies from nearby Sand
Island, contributed by 60 years of humans and many millions of goonies
and other seabirds may be stimulating enhanced turf and fleshy algal
growths and correspondingly higher populations of urchins which scrape
off the algae and erode the reef. The density of boring urchins was the
highest I've ever observed. Substrates mostly coral rubble on rises and
hard pavement and shifting sand in depressions.

***MID-Rm13 Jim Maragos***

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1030 hrs     28.277496739N                 177.366349743W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, N shallow lagoon reef (same as Rr10, permanent 55m
transect), 8 ft., 9/24/02, JM, MV*

Decision was made to establish a permanent transect at Rr10, a site of
profound coral bleaching visited the previous day. Bleaching seems to
have led to the dying of many *Montipora capitata* heads. Transect laid
N to S along a linear concentration of many corals slightly elevated on
a submerged ridge, that is parallel to other similar adjacent ridges.
Two pins set at the S end of the transect. Completely photoquadrated to
the 50m mark, then ran out of film to cover the final 5m.

**MID- Rrm14 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1321 hrs     28.241900557N                 177.371587621W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, W central lagoon, finger coral patch reef 48 ft., 60m
permanent transect set at 35-40 ft, 9/24/02, JM, MV, DS*

Site consisted of patch reef with several habitats, elongated in a W to
E axis. Transect set at east tip of the reef with the first pin set at
37 ft. Shallow zone mostly dead coral, rubble sand, fleshy algae, and
bleached and unbleached colonies (in roughly equal proportions) of
*Pocillopora* *spp.* Other corals included an undecribed finger coral
like *Porites, P lobata & P compressa.* An unusual find was the blue
coral *Montipora flabellata.* The deeper zone were steep slopes with
*Porites compressa* dominating at depths below 30 ft near the W tip,
diminishing to sand about 50m E along the N slope of the patch reef.
Coral cover in the finger coral gardens varied from 10 to 50% averaging
about 30%. Other rare corals in the garden included *Pavona varians &
Psammocora stellata.* Visibility was not high, about 30 ft, and
environment was reminiscent of Kaneohe Bay. Coral variety was high, and
coral cover drops out at about 50-55 ft. Entire transect was
photoquadrated.

**MID- Rrc15 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1500 hrs     28.195747788N                 177.408154854W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Midway Atoll, SW back reef, same as Rr12, coral coring site, 10 ft,
9/24/02, JM, DS*

Daria and I collected a coral core at exactly the same site visited at
the end of yesterday. Selected coral was *Porites evermanni,* bleached,
5 ft in diameter and 4.5 ft high. One of about 6 such heads in the
vicinity. Core collected was about 35 cm in length.

**MIDWAY ATOLL 2000 SUMMARY**

Maragos surveyed other coral reef habitats on the ocean reefs and lagoon
of Midway Atoll in late spring of 2000, including shallow back reef
habitats adjacent to the perimeter reef where large monotypic stands of
*Montipora cf turgescens* and large heads of *Porites lobata* are found.
These earlier surveys complement the ones during the *Rapture*
expedition. Clearly the back reef habitats supported the best coral
growth and diversity, vis-à-vis other lagoon and ocean reef habitats.
Better coral health may be maintained at the back reef where fresh ocean
waters of cooler temperatures are washed into the lagoon. Elsewhere
lagoon water temperatures may be too high or water circulation too
sluggish to support better coral development. The lagoon of Midway has
been severely altered during the past half century from dredge and fill,
sewage discharges, contaminant disposal, and World War II era bombing.
Reefs outside the lagoon also do not appear healthy for unknown reasons.
Overall Midway supported the lowest coral biodiversity levels compared
to that of any of the other NW Hawaiian islands surveyed in 2000. More
surveys are needed to determine the causes of the lower coral
development at Midway, especially in comparison to the much healthier
reefs at Kure Atoll, the northernmost in the world. The two *Rapture*
based dives are insufficient to draw any conclusions.

#### NECKER ISLAND

# **NEC-RD-08** 9/22/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 34.466' N, 164^o^ 41.551' W

Location: Northeastern point off Necker, directly northeast of two rocky
promontories.

System: Reef Community.

> Habitat: Basalt bench with sand channels and thin carbonate pavement.
> Strongly dominated by *P. meandrina*.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Pocillopora*.
>
> Depth: 45 -- 55'
>
> Coral: Live coral cover was under 20%. Eight species of stony corals
> were documented, along with two species of zoanthid and an
> unusually-lobed, yellow-colored *Sinularia* (soft coral); collected
> specimen for comparison with specimen from Nihoa.
>
> Other: Manta ray at the beginning of the dive, number of inquisitive
> monk seals and grey reef sharks.

## NEC-RJ-9 Jim Maragos

*Necker Island, wave cut basalt bench, E central side, N coast, Shark's
Bay, depth 13-41 feet, 2 transects, 9/22/00:*

## The site is located in the center of Shark's Bay a broad basaltic wave cut bench, the prominent feature along the east coast of Necker Island. During normal trade wind seas, waves steepen and break along the inner reaches of the bay, and even during our surveys at 30 feet long period swells from the NW generated considerable surge. The substrates in the bay have been planed flat by the surge and sediments in suspension, generating scour. Loose materials accumulate in holes, although sand is constantly shifting or in suspension. The bench shoals gradually in a landward direction in proportion to the attenuation of wave energy. Small sediment rills bisect the bench and expand into small sand channels when moving outside the bay. Small-to-large potholes puctuate the bench and serve as micro-refugia for fish, corals, invertebrates and seaweeds. The green alga *Halimeda* is a major carbonate sand producer and conspicuous feature of the bottom environment. Overall, live corals accounted for 10% of bottom cover and 14 species. The rare coral *Montipora verrilli* was noted, and the rose coral *Pocillopora meandrina* and the lobe coral *Porites lobata* were the only abundant species. Fish bite marks were observed on the tips of some rose coral colonies. There was also some evidence of *Acanthaster* predation on rose coral. There was no sign of anthropogenic disturbance at the site. A monk seal was observing from close range during a part of the dive.

# **NEC-RD-10** 9/22/00 Jim Maragos

GPS: 23^o^ 34.637' N, 164^o^ 42.02' W

Location: Shark's Bay, western end.

System: Reef Community.

Habitat: Basalt shelf with numerous sand channels, holes, overhangs and
macro algae. Habitat dominated by turf and mixed macroalgae.

> Ecological Unit: Turf and mixed macroalgae..
>
> Depth: 20 -- 40'.

Coral: Live coral cover was under 20%. *P. meandrina* and *P. lobata*
were the most commonly encountered coral species.

> Other: White-tip reef shark.

## 

## NEC-RJ-11 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1145 hrs     23° 34.788'N                  164° 42.121'N

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

###  Necker Island, basalt shelf, W point along N coast, depth 35-60 feet, 2 transects, 9/22/00:

The site is situated on a horizontal basalt shelf that appears to deepen
gradually in an offshore direction. The bench gradually transitions to a
series of massive basalt spurs alternating with sand channels or chasms
in deeper water. There corals are concentrated on the tops of the spurs.
In shallower water the surface of the shelf consists of a series of
shallow domes and mounds separated by creases and groves that collect
thin layers of shifting sediments in deeper water (below 40 feet). In
shallower water closer to the sea cliffs, sediments remain in suspension
much of the time, generating scour and likely discouraging coral
settlement. Coral abundance and variety is higher on the rises and lower
on the depressions, approaching 20 to 25% cover. Overall live coral
covers about 10% of the bottom and is represented by 11 species.
*Porites lobata* dominates the coral fauna on the rises and *Pocillopora
meandrina* is the only other abundant species. One branching coral
resembled *Porites duerdeni,* a rare species previously reported only
from Kaneohe Bay. There was no visible sign of human disturbance at the
site.

# **NEC-RD-12** 9/22/00 Jim Maragos

GPS: 23^o^ 34.415' N, 164^o^ 42.415' W

Location: Western tip of the island facing south.

System: Reef Community.

Habitat: Basalt bench with shallow trenches filled with sand deposits.
Numerous overhangs and holes.

> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 35 -- 45'.
>
> Coral: Live coral cover approached 40 -- 50% atop the rims of the
> trenches; coral cover was dominated by *Porites lobata*. Seven species
> of stony coral were documented along with one zoanthid.
>
> Other: Collected bright red seastar.

## NEC-RJ-13 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1550 hrs     23° 34.505'N                  164° 42.294'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

Necker Island, wave cut basalt shelf, S central coast, opposite saddle
in sea cliff, depth 13-32 feet, 2 transects, 9/22/00:

The site consisted of generally flat basaltic substrates gradually
becoming shallower closer to the sea cliffs of the island. Large swells
reflected through the site, generating considerable surge and sediments
in suspension, especially at depths shallower than 20 feet. Sand rills
and channels bisected the deeper, and more horizontal and shelf-like
portion of the substrate. In shallower water the substrate transitions
to a steeper basaltic ramp, with sand channels cutting through it and
eventually widening into chasms. The most prominent features were a
series of irregularly arranged holes in which a variety of reef life
took refuge. Corals were especially numerous (including *Porites
evermanni*) and larger within the holes, and several rare invertebrates
were also reported on the walls and floors of the larger holes. The
encrusting brain corals *Leptastrea purpurea* and *L. sp* were unusually
abundant and appear well adapted to the rigorous wave regime of the
habitat. Coral cover totaled 10 to 15% and coral diversity attained 14
species. Only *Porites lobata* and *Pocillopora meandrina* were common.
A piece of corroded iron, weighing about a pound accounts for the only
evidence of any anthropogenic evidence other than a few fishing lines
entangled on the bottom.

##### NEC-Rrm1 Jim Maragos 

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1000 hrs     23° 34.522'N                  164° 42.309'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

Necker Island, wave planed basalt shelf and shallow rises, bisected with
erosional rills and steep-sided channels, off central S coast, along
long coast of sea cliffs, depth 30 ft, one 55m permanent transect, 13
pins, photo-quadrats complete, 9/10/02: MV, DS, & coxswain Dave Boone.

The site is typical of Necker with the shoreline consisting of steep
cliffs and nearshore areas consisting of basalt benches, with sand
channels and gradual mounds, the crests of which are concentrated with
corals, mostly *Pocillopora meandrina* and some *Porites lobata.*
Remaining corals were uncommon. Sand veneer in some depressions,
although constantly in motion. Evidence of considerable bioerosion. Turf
algae over basalt was the dominant cover, with pockets of thin carbonate
veneer, coralline algae and corals. Maximum depth 30 ft., and average
coral cover 15%.

##### NEC-Rrc2 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1213 hrs     23° 34.368'N                  164° 42.263'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

Necker Island, "boat landing", a small semi-protected embayment, off the
W coast, somewhat in the lee of the tradewinds, 10-57 ft, coral "coring"
& general DACOR dive, 9/10/02:

A unique environment at the island that is generally exposed to heavy
seas from all directions except the SW. Calm depositional environment
closest to the actual landing spot, a narrow isthmus. Walls are steep
and composed of hard basalt that gradually bottoms out into talus fields
of large blocks and boulders around the perimeter, in some places
forming caves. The central basin consists of mounds, ridges, and
depressions some with fine sands. All elevated surfaces are hard but
appear to be covered with fine sediments or flocculents. The variety of
habitats enhances species richness of corals, and 2 new records were
reported: Porites hawaiiensis and Leptastrea bewickensis. A total of 13
species of coral were reported and averaging 20% cover, the highest of
any Necker site, and including another possible sighting of Acropora
cytherea. Unusual were the summersaults of small manta rays feeding in
the "soup" of the embayment, perhaps stimulated by the enclosed
circulation and guano-stimulated plankton production. An unknown
pipefish was also photographed, 10" long and with a color pattern of
alternating bars of light and dark green, and with a bulls-eye tail.
Three coral fragments, 2 of Porites evermanni and one of Porites lobata
were collected by Daria, for future estimates of coral growth rates.

**NEC-Rr3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1534 hrs     23° 34.667'N                  164° 42.260'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

Necker Island, SW corner on south side near sea cliffs, and submerged
ridge projecting seaward of corner of island, 10-30 ft, general DACOR
survey, no transects, 9/10/02: MV, DS & DB.

Brief survey of typical habitat exposed to heavy seas. Mostly hard
basalt plain with ridges and low mounds the crests of which are
clustered with corals. Steep-sided narrow sand channels and rills
bisected the bottom, transporting mostly carbonate sands, gravels and
rubble further offshore. Low diversity corals, with Pocillopora
meandrina and Porites lobata co-dominants. Coral cover averaged about
10-15%, higher on the rises, lower on the flats, and absent in
depressions and sand channels.

## NECKER (Mokumanamana) 2000 SUMMARY

Necker resembles Nihoa in several respects with regard to reef and coral
development. Necker is a small island, unable to buffer the impacts of
strong waves that can break along her submerged shorelines from any
direction. The inimical effects of scour (surge combined with sand and
other large sediments in suspension) is evident from the wave cut bench
in Shark's Bay and the deeply cut sand channels and chasms at several
locations in deeper water. The concentration of living corals on
elevated surfaces is a manifestation of corals surviving better in less
scour-prone environments. Although Necker is smaller than Nihoa, deeper
coral reef shelf habitat surrounding Necker is more extensive. This
broad shelf extends around the island, especially to the southeast, but
is not shallow enough to protect the island from wave action.
Nevertheless the number of coral species at Necker is comparable to that
of Nihoa, less than 20, and reflects the difficulty of corals colonizing
and establishing permanent communities in shallow water. Reef growth, if
any, around either island is minimal, and both islands have experienced
the punishing effects of large waves, in terms of the high wave cut sea
cliffs above seal level and wave planed benches and shelves below sea
level. There was little evidence of any anthropogenic effect on the reef
environments of Necker Island.

NIHOA ISLAND

NIH-RJ-1 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1632 hrs     23° 03.400'N                  161° 55.153'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Nihoa Island, wave cut basalt shelf, SE corner near rocky promontory,
depth 45-60 feet, 2 transects, 9/20/00:*

The site consisted of a flat barren basalt shelf covered with a thin
veneer of reef carbonate rock pavement, mostly overlain with a thin
layer of sand deposits in shallow depressions. Elsewhere corals were
more abundant on shallow rises but never exceeding 10% cover is any
place. Outcrops and large boulders of basalt jutted up through the
shelf. Only 9 coral species were recorded, of which an unidentified rare
soft coral *Sinularia sp* was observed on vertical basalt surfaces.
*Porites lobata*, *Pocillopora meandrina*, *P.* *ligulata*, and
especially encrustations of *Leptastrea* were abundant. Numerous
crown-of-thorns starfish (*Acanthaster*) were observed actively feeding
on *Leptastrea* and smaller *Pocillopora* colonies and knobs. Fish bite
marks were observed on some *Pocillopora*. Water visibility approached
about 60 to 80 feet. No anthropogenic disturbances were noted.

# 

# **NIH-RD-02** 9/20/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: No GPS taken.

Location: Southern side, western tip; to the right of a small beach with
eight monk seals basking on it.

System: Reef Community.

Habitat: Basalt bench with carbonate pavement and sand deposits.

> Depth: 35' -- 55'
>
> Coral: Five species of stony corals , a zoanthid and *Sinularia
> abrupta*. Most abundant coral was *P. meandrina*. Lots of small *P.
> meandrina* and *P. lobata* colonies.
>
> Other: Lots of *Asperagopsis* (Limu Kohu). Numerous recently-cleaned
> *P. meandrina* heads & one recently-cleaned *L. purpurea* head,
> spotted three *A.* planci in the vicinity; one of which was observed
> feeding on a small *P. meandrina* head. Documented one small head of
> *P. lobata* which appeared to show characteristic stress response.

# **NIH-RJ-3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0900 hrs     23° 03.820'N                  161° 55.015'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Nihoa Island, wave cut basalt shelf, trench, and walls, N coast near
base of sea cliff, no transects, depth 30-75 feet*, *9/21/00:*

The nearshore bottom environment was too steep and turbulent to allow
any planned transect studies. The site consisted of barren eroded and
scoured basalt walls, a shallow trench, basalt ridges and pinnacles, and
large blocks of basalt, with thin veneers of carbonate (corals,
coralline algae) below depths of 35 ft. Basalt surfaces seemed
distinctly pahoehoe but were riddled with channels and pits produced by
boring sea urchins (*Echinometra, Echinostrephus)*. Few living corals
were observed above a depth of 40 feet, and the site is subjected to
extreme turbulence from wave action which was noticeable even during the
calm conditions of the day. Foam is constantly heavy, reflecting
sunlight and shading bottom surfaces. *Porite lobata* was the only
common coral species and only below depths of 70 feet. Coral coverage
was less than 1 % but approached 25% in the optimal coral zone below
depths of 70 feet. Fish bite marks were observed on some *Pocillopora*
*meandrina* colonies, and some *Porites lobata* colonies were pale,
Coral diversity was also very low, with only 10 species reported. No
anthropogenic disturbance was noted.

# **NIH-RD-04** 9/21/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 23^o^ 03.679' N, 161^o^ 54.835' W

Location: Eastern end, small cove surrounded by high cliffs; small sea
cave at the apex of the cove.

System: Reef Community.

Habitat: Basalt bench with large basalt blocks, carbonate pavement and
sand deposits. Habitat was characterized by *P. meandrina* colonies and
small encrustations of *P. lobata*.

> Ecological Unit: *Pocillopora*.
>
> Depth: 50' -- 60'
>
> Coral: Eight species of stony coral, two zoanthids and the abundant
> soft coral *Sinularia abrupta*. Collected specimen of *Sinularia
> abrupta*.

**NIH-RJ- 5** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1145 hrs     23° 03.335'N                  161° 55.598'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Nihoa Island, wave cut basalt walls, shelf, benches, and ledges, S end
of W coast near SW point of island, depth 30-71 feet, 2 transects,
9/21/00:*

The site consisted of a staircase of four alternating horizontal and
vertical basalt features oriented parallel to the abutting sea cliffs. A
shallow bench projected seaward of the island's sea cliffs at a depth of
about 25 to 35 feet, showing high bottom relief and high coral cover
(over 20%) near its outer edge. Beyond it, a near vertical basalt wall
descended to the deeper offshore shelf at 60 to 70 feet. The latter
showed irregular relief and lower coral cover (about 10%) and appeared
to extend indefinitely in a seaward direction. Scoured boulders and
cobbles and sand in constant motion were scattered over the shelf. Black
sponges (*Spongia*), rose coral (*Pocillopora meandrina*) and fish
communities (surgeonfish) were also abundant along the outer edge of the
upper bench. Twelve species of corals were reported with the soft
zoanthid coral *Palythoa* achieving unusually high abundance on the
upper bench. The stony corals *Montipora capitata,* rose coral*, and
Porites lobata* were also abundant. Many dead standing *Pocillopora*
colonies were noted. No anthropogenic disturbance was noted. One monk
seal was observing from close range.

# **NIH-RD-06** 9/21/00 Dave Gulko

> GPS: 23^o^ 03.602' N, 161^o^ 55.847' W

Location: Western end, northern tip; directly off of high sea cliffs.

System: Reef Community.

Habitat: Basalt bench with carbonate pavement, basalt blocks and sand
deposits. Small overhangs and holes.

> Ecological Unit: *Pocillopora* and *Porites*.
>
> Depth: 50' -- 60'
>
> Coral: Eight species of stony coral, a zoanthid, the soft coral
> *Sinularia abrupta*, and the wire coral, *Cirrhipathes* sp. Habitat
> was characterized by *P. meandrina* colonies and encrustations of *P.
> lobata*.

## 

## NIH-RJ-7 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1400 hrs     23° 03.280'N\*                161° 55.000'N\*

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Nihoa Island, basalt cove, walls, and bench, E end of S coast near SE
point of island, depth 15-54 feet, 2 transects, 9/21/00:*

The site consisted of a small basalt cove just to the west of the basalt
promontory marking the SE corner of the island. As such the site was
protected from heavy wave action allowing divers access to the base of
the sea cliff marking the "shoreline" of the island. The bottom
environment consisted of a heavily scoured basalt bench gradually
sloping seaward from a depth of 15 feet to over 50 feet offshore,
covered with large basalt blocks and basalt pinnacles, and adding
considerable habitat complexity. The bottom was covered with shifting or
rippled sand, cobbles, and other rocks accumulating in depressions and
furrows. Coral cover approached 25 %, a consequence of some protection
in the cove against the erosive forces of wave action. Coral cover on
the tops of some boulders achieved 50%. Living corals were more common
on surfaces elevated above the bottom. The basalt surfaces were barren
and scoured close to the sea cliff and further offshore at depths
greater than 50 feet. The vermillion tube coral (*Tubastraea coccinea*)
was common on the ceilings of overhangs and caves, and a large colony of
the rare leather coral *Sinularia* covered the elevated surfaces of a
basalt boulder. Other common corals included *Palythoa, Pocillopora,*
and *Porites,* and 12 species of corals were noted including 3 soft
corals. No anthropogenic disturbance was noted.

##### NIH-Rrm1 Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1425 hrs     23° 03.740'N                  161° 55.779'N

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

Nihoa Island, basalt outcrop/"pinnacle" and bench, W side, 2/3rds the
way to NW tip, depth 10-53ft, permanent transect 55m, photoquadrats
complete, 9/9/02:JM, DS, MV, A& coxswain Boone

The site consisted of a large basalt mound rising off the surrounding
basalt plain from depths of 50 to 10 ft, the top of which was flat,
between 10-15 ft deep and where corals were common. Most abundant corals
were Palythoa tuberculosa, Pocillopora meandrina, Porites lobata, and
Montipora capitata. Live coral cover 15% dropping to zero on the walls
and less than 1% on the deeper bench. Permanent transect was laid from
offshore upper edge, across the top, and then down the steep slope, the
30m mark was positioned half way up the wall. The rest of the transect
extended to the base of the outcrop and then traversed the floor of the
basalt plain. Most of the plain was planed basalt and large blocks with
a few depressions filled with white sand. Surge was especially heavy on
the top of the outcrop and still pronounced on the plain. Other divers:
Marjo Vierros, Daria Siciliano, and Andy.

**NIH-Rrm2** Jim Maragos

Nihoa Island, basalt shelf and mounds, W side, 2/3rds the way to the SW
corner, 35-54 ft., 50m permanent transect, completely photoquadrated,
10/6/02, JM, DS, MV

Our last site of the 2002 NOWRAMP expedition, consisting of an irregular
basalt shelf with high relief and consisting of massive scoured basalt
substrate bisected with rills and sand channels, caves, overhangs and
small pinnacles. Visibility about 80 ft. and bathymetric relief of 5m.
Coral cover was about 10-15%, reasonably high given the rigor of the
prevailing sweas, surge and currents. Porites evermanni, P lobata &
Pocillopora meandrina were all common to abundant, with some lobe coral
forms present (10-15 cm in height. Time did not permit collecting coral
as Jim was running low on air due to the heavy work of hammering in
stakes in hard basalt, retriving broken lines, untangling our anchor,
retrieving loose stakes, and taking the photoquadrats. Rest of bottom
was basalt covered by a thin veneer of crustose coralline algae, turf
algae, and fleshy algae. Urchins and starfish present as were schools of
generally smaller fish.

Transect laid from S to N, with the beginning point double staked, and
additional stakes placed at about 6-7m intervals. A total of 9 stakes
(or 8 if one was lost). Entire line of 50m photoquadrated.

## NIHOA 2000 SUMMARY

Nihoa supports coral communities with very limited total habitat, most
of which is not afforded protection from the heavy and chronic wave
action that strikes this small island from all directions. These
habitats consist of the submerged portions of sea cliffs close to shore,
caves/lava tubes, ledges, overhangs, basalt pinnacles, boulders,
cobbles, sand deposits, basalt benches, deeper basalt slopes, trenches
and shelves or terraces. All of these features have been shaped by, and
are constantly being eroded by chronic and often heavy wave action. The
rigorous environment and geographically isolated nature of the island
has limited the number of corals that have successfully colonized the
shallow basalt habitats encircling the island. Nowhere was coral
abundance greater than 25%, and the scouring effects of suspended sand
and turbulent wave energy has prevented most corals from inhabiting
habitats at depths less than 30 feet. Corals also were more abundant on
elevated surfaces where there was apparently less scour. Less than 20
species of corals were reported from the island. Anthropogenic
disturbance was negligible in the nearshore waters surrounding the
island. A single untended mooring buoy and a few fishing lines entangled
on the bottom were the only evidence of recent human presence.

**PEARL AND HERMES REEF**

# **P&H-RD-68** 10/08/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 50.537' N, 175^o^ 59.621' W

Location: Outside pass on the western side of the atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Eroded reef with numerous holes and overhangs. Much of the
> reef represented rubble cemented together by calcareous algae.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and calcareous algae.
>
> Depth: 50 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: 5% live coral cover. Documented seventeen species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Most abundant coral was
> *Pocillopora ligulata*. Documented and collected specimens of *Pavona
> maldivensis* and *Porites* sp. (the same as collected on Kure)
> occurring within holes and under overhangs.
>
> Other: Wide variety of calcareous algae. *Halimeda* attached to much
> of the reef face in small clumps. Saber squirrelfish within a number
> of the larger holes.

# **P&H-RD-70** 10/09/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 47.690' N, 175^o^ 59.534' W

Location: Outside on the southwest side of the atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Eroded reef with numerous holes and overhangs. Much of the
> reef represented rubble cemented together by calcareous algae.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and calcareous algae.
>
> Depth: 25 -- 45'.
>
> Coral: Roughly 10% live coral cover. Documented thirteen species of
> stony coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. The most abundant
> coral was *Fungia*, while *Pocillopora damicornis*, *Pavona
> maldivensis* and *Psammocora stellata* were all very common. Some of
> the *Fungia* had the parasitic snail *Epitonium ulu* on the undersides
> with egg masses.
>
> Other: Lots of goatfish.

# **P&H-RD-72** 10/09/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 47.343' N, 175^o^ 51.357' W

Location: Outside south side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Carbonate pavement with ocassional shallow holes or rubble
> mounds. Bottom was covered with the macroalgae *Microdictyon*.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and macroalgae.
>
> Depth: 45 -- 55'.
>
> Coral: Far less than 5% live coral cover. Documented thirteen species
> of stony coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Living coral
> was primarily restricted to shallow holes or rubble mounds. Documented
> and collected four different fungiid corals: *Cycloseris tenuis*, *C.
> vaughani*, *Fungia granulosa*, and *F. scutaria*. Documented a
> flourescent young fungiid coral.
>
> Other: Large manta ray, galapagos sharks, sandbar sharks and big ulua.
> Invert and coral divers surrounded by a large (\>50) school of ulua.
> Numerous *Anthias*. Lobster found in some of the larger holes, while
> large eels were extremely common in the holes and rubble mounds.
> Crown-of-Thorns seastar observed feeding on *P. damicornis*. Also
> spotted the Japanese angelfish (*Centropyge interrupta*), the masked
> angelfish (*Geniacanthus personatus*), and the bandit angelfish
> (*Desmoholacanthus arcuatus*). Thompson's anthias, and milletseed
> butterflyfishes. Large number of planktivores.

**P&H-RJ-73** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1454 hrs     27° 50.096'N                  176° 00.211'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, ocean pinnacle, northwest open perimeter or
pass, depths 30-60 feet, 2 transects, 10/8/00*

The site is situated along the northwest boundary of the atoll, where
the perimeter reef is incomplete and leaving an open pass area into the
lagoon. The survey site was located on one of many submerged pinnacles
located in a transition zone between the lagoon and ocean. The pinnacle
was a broad elongated dome with its crest at 40 feet and its base at 80
to 90 feet. Due to diving restrictions, only the upper sides and top of
the pinnacle to a maximum depth of 60 feet were surveyed. Rippled sand
deposits encircled the base of the pinnacle. Bathymetric relief on the
top of the pinnacle was low and limited to a few holes and rills. The
sides of the pinnacle showed some vertical surfaces and ledges where
additional coral species may have been found. The top of the reef
consisted of dense concentrations of branching coral populations
dominated by several species of *Pocillopora* and flat encrustations of
lobe coral (*Porites lobata*). Coral cover averaged 50% on the pinnacle.
Other substrates consisted of crustose coralline algae and other fleshy
algal species. A total of 15 species of corals were recorded at the
site. No anthropogenic disturbances were evident.

# 

# **P&H-RD-74** 10/09/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 47.753' N, 175^o^ 49.569' W

Location: Central lagoon.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Reticulated reef habitat with lots of rubble, surrounded by
> rubble and sand flats. Area primarily covered by macroalgae (mostly
> *Microdictyon* and *Padina*).
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and macroalgae.
>
> Depth: 15 -- 25'.
>
> Coral: Less than 5% live coral cover. Documented nine species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Few live corals were
> seen at this site; no live corals were found on the second transect.
> Most of the pocilliporid corals looked bleached; found a
> Crown-of-Thorns feeding on a *Pocillipora molokensis*. Numerous
> fungiid corals were found in the rubble and sand surrounding the reef
> itself, one *Fungia granulosa* had a commensal crab living on the
> underside.
>
> Other: Ulua and galapagos sharks. Found one long-dead Pearl oyster
> (*Pinctada margaritifera*).

**P&H-RJ-75** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0908 hrs     27° 47.033'N                  175° 59.630'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, spurs-and-grooves, SW end of atoll perimeter
reef, depths 20-59 feet, no transects, 10/9/00*

This site is located at the southwest end of the intact perimeter reef
encircling about 80% of the atoll. The survey site consisted of a
spur-and-groove complex, with the tops of the spurs or buttresses at
depths of 30 feet and the bases at a depth of about 60 feet. Sand
channels separated the spurs, with each averaging about 25m in width.
Smaller auxiliary buttresses connected to the base of larger buttresses,
further adding habitat quantity and variety. Here were found abundant
concentrations of mushroom corals of 2 species including one new record
for the NW Hawaiian Islands, (*Fungia* *granulose*) a species previously
reported only once at Molokai. As a transition zone between the lagoon
and ocean environment, the site supported a large variety of corals (21
species) and relatively high coral coverage (50%). The most abundant
corals were the branching coral *Pocillopora ligulata* and the lobe
coral *Porites lobata.* The survey site was one of the most diverse and
developed for corals at the atoll. No anthropogenic disturbance was
reported.

# **P&H-RD-76** 10/10/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 50.021' N, 175^o^ 50.003' W

Location: Inside central lagoon.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Reticulated reef structure, surrounded by rubble and sand
> flats. Reef structure formed a crude circle with a hollow center which
> extended beyond 30' and had a mixed rubble/sand floor.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites* and *Halimeda*.
>
> Depth: 15 -- 30'.
>
> Coral: Roughly 40% live coral cover. Documented eight species of stony
> coral. *Porites compressa* was the dominant coral and formed the
> majority of the reef structure.
>
> Other: Numerous ark shells were found in the reef structure.

**P&H-RJ-77** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1318 hrs     27° 47.183'N                  175° 50.536'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, ocean reef slope, between the two small passes
on the S perimeter, depths10-58 feet, 2 transects, 10/9/00*

The survey was conducted on the shallow ocean reef slope off the south
side of the atoll between two passes used for small boat access into the
lagoon. The reef itself lacked spurs-and-grooves, and consisted of a
gradually rising and hummocky slope of consolidated rubble, sand, and
crustose coralline algae cemented together into a hard brecchia or
mixture. Bore holes from the urchin *Echinostrephus* riddled the surface
of the reef, and extensive surge and scour were additional erosive
forces striking the reef. The green alga *Microdictyon* was also
incorporated into the consolidated reef substrate and was the dominant
benthic life form. *Halimeda* sand was also abundant. Corals were
neither abundant (5% cover) nor diverse (9 species) at the site, most
likely the consequence of less than ideal settlement substrates for
larvae, heavy surge, and considerable scour and shifting sand in
constant motion. Fish populations were abundant at the site. Substrates
here resembled those of an adjacent study site (P&H-RJ-87). No
anthropogenic disturbance was evident at the site.

# 

# **P&H-RD-78** 10/10/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 48.961' N, 175^o^ 51.148' W

Location: Inside central lagoon.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Reticulated reef structure, surrounded by rubble and sand
> flats. Reef flat covered with rock-boring urchins (*Echinometra
> mathaei*).
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins, *Microdictyon* and
> *Dictyosphaeria*.
>
> Depth: 15 -- 30'.
>
> Coral: Far less than 5% live coral cover. Documented thirteen species
> of stony coral. *Pocillopora damicornis* and *P. molokensis* were the
> the most common corals. Noted numerous recently broken large heads of
> *Pocillopora*, questioned whether this might be due to the large monk
> seal observed at this small reef site at the beginning of the dive?
>
> Other: Large monk seal noted at beginning of dive (Tag #22 or 25?).
> Numerous lobster and moon snail eggcases observed. Documented a
> slipper lobster and a large (\>9" diameter) live pearl oyster
> (*Pinctada margaritifera*); this is the first live pearl oyster that
> we've found at Pearl & Hermes. Also noted two pairs of *Stenopus
> hispidus*.

**P&H-RJ-79** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1645 hrs     27° 49.011'N                  175° 50.102'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, deep reef hole, central lagoon, depths 0-58
feet, no transects, 10/9/00*

The site is located in the deep central lagoon of the atoll where
several linear reefs of the reticulate reef complex coalesce to form a
deep reef hole with limited subtidal connection to adjacent lagoon
areas. However, strong currents at the time of the dive were running
through the hole from the east and demonstrably mixing with water in the
hole. The sides of the hole were carpeted with the finger coral *Porites
compressa* from depths of 0 to 58 feet. The floor of the lagoon was
covered with fine white carbonate sands. Average coral cover on the
slopes was 70%. Coralline algae became more prominent at shallow depths
(less than 10 feet) and colonized the tops of finger coral platforms
that reached mean low water levels. Due to the monopolizing of the
substrate by finger coral, none of the other 6 species was very
abundant. The lobe coral, *Porites lobata* and the lace coral
*Pocillopora damicornis* were the only other common species. No
anthropogenic disturbance was evident at the site. GPS coordinates for
site incorrect.

# **P&H-RD-80** 10/10/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 46.221' N, 175^o^ 53.890' W

Location: Outside, due south of Grass Islet.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Carbonate pavement with occasional shallow holes or rubble
> mounds. Bottom was covered with the macroalgae *Microdictyon*.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and *Microdictyon*
>
> Depth: 45 -- 60'.
>
> Coral: Far less than 5% live coral cover. Documented eleven species of
> stony coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Coral cover was
> extremely low, with large pocilloporid colonies being the most easily
> observed feature on the flat pavement. *Fungia granulosa* was the most
> common coral.
>
> Other: The entire dive the dive team was surrounded by large numbers
> of ulua, reaching a maximum of over 300 individual jacks. Numerous
> Galapagos sharks were spotted but stayed away presumably due to the
> large numbers of jacks. Spotted over a dozen Masked angelfish (both
> male and female), along with Fischer's angelfish, Bandit angelfish and
> tilefish. Three large Crown-of-Thorns seastars were also observed.

**P&H-RJ-81** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1016 hrs     27° 51.462'N                  175° 44.371'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, E back reef and shipwreck, no transects, depth
3-5 feet, 10/10/00*

This site is located on the eastern rim of the atoll, along the lagoon
half of the back reef in shallow water. The substrate was predominantly
crustose coralline algal pavement covered by a thin veneer of coralline
algae sands of pink, white, and orange colors, held in place by worm
tubes. Strong wave set-up from the windward breaker zone was pushing
water over the reef intothe lagoon in an east to west direction, and
water clarity was extremely high. Although coral cover was low at the
site (less than one percent) diversity was moderately high at 7 species
with *Pocillopora damicornis, P. ligulata,* and *P. meandrina* and
*Porites compressa* and *P. lobata all* common to abundant. The
shipwreck itself is scattered over the back reef and adjacent shallow
lagoon areas, with the largest pieces consisting of an rusted iron
boiler, pipes, hull sheeting, and other scrap metal. Large growths of
the blue-green algae *Lyngbya* were abundant downdrift of the wreck,
suggesting that dissolved iron from the wreck may be stimulating growths
of the algae, as documented at other atolls (Rose, Helen, etc.) in the
Pacific. Other than the residual effects of the wreck, there were no
apparent anthropogenic effects at the reef site.

# **P&H-RD-82** 10/11/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 53.755' N, 175^o^ 50.56' W

Location: Lagoon, north central area.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Large patch reef with a well-developed reef flat and a large
> reef hole in the center. Outside walls and reef flat of the patch reef
> were primarily *Porites compressa*. Floor of the reef hole was sand
> (with a paste-like consistency), often covered with a thin
> cyanobacterial mat.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Porites*.

Depth: 25 -- 30'. Outside wall of patch reef dropped below 50'; crest
and reef flat were less than 5' and the bottom of the reef hole was 25
-- 30'.

> Coral: Transects had over 60% live coral, but it was all monospecific
> (*Porites compressa*). Documented only eight species of stony coral.
> Coral cover was dominated by *P. compressa*. Almost all the other
> species of coral were found in extremely small numbers on the crest,
> reef flat or on rubble in the reef hole.
>
> Other: The dive was characterized by poor visibility. Found one live
> pearl oyster (*Pinctada margeritifera*), which measured 10" across its
> diameter, on the outside wall. Large numbers of juvenile *aweoweo*
> (100's) were seen in the open on the outside of the patch reef, while
> large schools of juvenile *uhu* were seen swimming around the inside
> edge the reef hole. Numerous live ark shells were seen all over the
> reef.

**P&H-RJ-83** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1137 hrs     27° 51.462'N                  175° 46.944'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, E deep lagoon reticular reef sand hole, 2
transects, depth 20-60 feet, 10/10/00*

This site is located in the east central lagoon, about 5 km west of the
breakers along the eastern windward rim of the atoll. The hole is the
manifestation of lagoon reticular reef growth that has encircled a small
portion of the deep lagoon, creating a protected environment and
sediment sink for fine sediments. The bottom of the hole was greater
than 60 feet, perhaps as much as 80 feet and was covered with fine white
carbonate sediments. Turbidity in the hole was high at the time of our
dive. The walls of the hole were generally steep and dominated by the
thalli of *Halimeda*. There was very little solid or hard surfaces in
the hole and along the slopes, making it difficult for corals to
colonize the hole. Live coral cover was less than one percent and only
three species were recorded. The largest coral was a 50 cm head of the
finger coral *Porites compressa.* The other two species were small and
inconspicuous (*Pocillopora damicornis, Cyphastrea ocellina).* The hole
itself was representative of many similar features which cover much of
the lagoon, and the reasons why coral growth is high in some areas and
lower in others, such as the sand hole, are not clear.

# 

# **P&H-RD-84** 10/11/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 52.633' N, 175^o^ 53.471' W

Location: Lagoon, middle of long reticulated reef which runs roughly
north to south from the northwest central portion of the lagoon.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Reef flat atop a long reticulated reef composed of large
> pieces of cemented rubble with sand patches. Large amounts of
> calcareous algae and *Halimeda*.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and calcareous algae.
>
> Depth: 15 -- 25'.
>
> Coral: Far less than 5% live coral cover. Documented eleven species of
> stony coral. All living coral was found as small colonies amongst, or
> attached to, rubble. Large living colonies of *Porites compressa* were
> found at depths below 35' off the west side of the reef on the reef
> slope.
>
> Other: Large numbers of the seastar *Linckia* and the pencil-slate
> urchin *Heterocentrotus* were seen out in the open atop the reef flat.
> Spotted one living pearl oyster (*Pinctada margeritifera*), with a 7"
> diameter across its shell, wedged into a large piece of rubble. Almost
> all the rubble had sponges on it. Documented a pebble collector urchin
> (*Pseudoboletia indiana*) amongst the rubble. A number of large spiny
> lobster were found in holes under some of the larger pieces of rubble.

**P&H-RJ-85** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1257 hrs     27° 51.900'N                  175° 47.565'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, E deep lagoon reticulate reef hole, finger coral
gardens, depth 5-60 feet, 2 transects, 10/10/00*

This site is located in the east central lagoon, about 6 km west of the
windward breaker zone of the eastern perimeter reef of the atoll and
about one km west of site P&H-RJ-83. The reef site consists of several
linear or reticular reefs that have coalesced to form deep, mostly
enclosed reef holes in the deep lagoon. The walls of the hole are steep
and covered with living finger coral (*Porites compressa*) averaging
about 85% coral cover. The small interstices of the fingers and other
voids serve as refugia for bands of small juvenile parrotfish that roam
over the reef in search of algal food. The finger coral efficiently
monopolizes substrates and sheds sediment, and is effective in excluding
other species of coral: only 7 species were reported. The small brain
coral *Cyphastrea ocellina* and the lace coral *Pocillopora damicornis*
were the only other common species. The algae *Caulerpa racemosa* was
entwined in the branches of the fingercoral. The floor of the hole was
covered in fine white carbonate sediments. Visibility was restricted to
about 20 feet. No anthropogenic disturbance was evident.

# 

# **P&H-RD-86** 10/12/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 46.953' N, 175^o^ 47.503' W

Location: Outside, southeast end of the atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Eroded spur and groove with occasional shallow holes or
> rubble mounds. Bottom was covered with rock-boring urchins and the
> macroalgae *Microdictyon*.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and *Microdictyon*
>
> Depth: 40 -- 55'.
>
> Coral: Less than 10% live coral cover. Documented twelve species of
> stony coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Coral cover was
> low, with colonies of encrusting *Porites* corals being the most
> easily observed feature. *Pocillopora* colonies were all relatively
> small heads. *Psammocora stellata* colonies found in deep holes showed
> a strongly branching growth form. Dwayne Minton also collected an
> unidentified, small, conical-shaped ahermatypic coral from similar
> deep holes. Noted a number of what appeared to be small, bleached
> *Porites* colonies (see below).
>
> Other: Low visibility on this dive compounded with strong surge made
> surveying difficult. Observed Crown-of-Thorns seastar actively feeding
> on a small *Porites lobata* colony; given the extremely low number of
> *Pocillopora* colonies observed, this may be its primary food source
> at this site and may account for the "bleached" colonies observed.
> Numerous *Geniacanthus* were observed, along with Klein's
> butterflyfish, tilefish, *ulua*, galapagos and whitetip sharks, *nohu*
> and a live Triton's Trumpet.

**P&H-RJ-87** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1545 hrs     27° 47.414'N                  175° 51.462'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, S deep pass ("boat channel") through the
perimeter reef, depth 20-39 feet, 2 transects, 10/10/00*

This site is located outside the south central rim of the atoll. The
survey was carried out on the floor of the deep ocean pass during a
period of slack and gently ebbing tides. The reef substrate demonstrated
a hummocky appearance reminiscent of the reef substrates of adjacent
areas along the south-facing ocean reefs. The substrate itself is
composed of hard coralline algae carbonate, eroded by boring urchins
(*Echinometra, Echinothrix)* and in a semi consolidated state with the
green algae *Microdictyon* and sand deposits. Surge was heavy in the
channel as a result of tradewind swells wrapping around the southeast
corner and striking the southern facing reef. Coral cover was not high,
averaging about 10% cover. The reef itself consisted of plateaus and low
mounds and ridges, with only a few small holes with sand deposits. At
depths of 40 feet the reef gives way to broad sand flats covered with
turf algae and rivulets of rubble deposits. A total of ten species of
corals. The most common species were *Pocillopora ligulata, Porites
lobata ,*and *Fungia granulosa,* the last a mushroom coral previously
reported only from a few places in Hawaii. Large and diverse fish
populations were roaming through the pass, especially after the tide
began to turn.

# **P&H-RD-88** 10/12/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 47.946' N, 175^o^ 53.365' W

Location: Lagoon, southwest side of the atoll.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Reticulated reef made-up of rubble and calcareous algae.
> Bottom was covered with rubble and *Stypopodium*. Surrounding sand
> flat contained numerous rubble piles.
>
> Ecological Unit: Rock-boring urchins and *Stypopodium*.
>
> Depth: 15 -- 25'.
>
> Coral: 10 - 15% live coral cover. Documented twelve species of stony
> coral. *Pocillopora molokensis* was the dominant coral at this site.
> *P. damicornis*, *P. elegans* and *Fungia scutaria* were common.
> Dwayne Minton collected from underneath a large piece of rubble
> another specimen of the unidentified, small, conical-shaped
> ahermatypic coral seen at site P&H-RD-86. Corals such as *Pavona
> varians* and *Psammacora stellata* were found under small overhangs.
> Numerous colonies of recently broken or overturned *P. molokensis*
> were observed (see below).
>
> Other: A large monk seal (with an accompanying *ulua*) was observed
> diving around this reef and might account for the recently broken
> heads of *P. molokensis.* Large *ulua* harrassed divers. Spotted two
> specimens of the pebble urchin, *Pseudoboletia indiana*.

**P&H-RJ-89** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1104 hrs     27° 53.859'N                  175° 53.696'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, N deep lagoon patch reef coral gardens, depth
0-52 feet, 2 transects, 10/11/00*

This site is situated in the north protected area of the lagoon about 2
km east of the broad northwest open pass area, close to the back of the
perimeter reef fronting the site. Habitat complexity was high, including
crustose coralline algal reef flats, shallow and deep sand deposits,
ledges, vertical walls, and interstices amoung the dominant finger coral
platforms. The site likely benefits from ocean water influx from the
nearby perimeter reef where wave set up constantly pushes water over the
shallow perimeter reefs towards the pinnacle. Corals were diverse and
abundant (averaging 80% live coral cover). In shallow water several of
the *Pocillopora ligulata* heads appeared bleached nearly white but
still alive. The finger coral *Porites compressa* covered most all of
the vertical walls to depths of 50 feet, with the cupped brain coral
(*Cyphastrea ocellina),* the mushroom coral *Fungia scutaria,* the
encrusting brain coral *Leptastrea purpurea,* and the rice plate coral
*Montipora capitata* also abundant. A total of 14 species of coral were
reported. The site appeared pristine except for marine debris (fish net)
found entangled and smothering one large coral. The sand-producing green
alga, *Halimeda,* had colonized the net and nearly covered the dead
coral.

# **P&H-RD-90** 10/12/00 Dave Gulko

GPS: 27^o^ 53.755' N, 175^o^ 50.56' W

Location: Lagoon, southwest side.

> System: Atoll.
>
> Habitat: Backreef habitat composed of hard carbonate pavement with
> abundant *Pocillopora molokensis* colonies. Small sand and rubble
> holes with occasional small overhangs and undercuts. The sand flat on
> the lagoon side of the backreef was full of large rubble pieces and
> numerous burrows.
>
> Ecological Unit: *Pocillopora*, calcareous algae and rock-boring
> urchins.
>
> Depth: 5 -- 15'.
>
> Coral: 10 - 15% live coral cover. Documented seven species of stony
> coral and the zoanthid, *Palythoa tuberculosa*. Coral cover was low,
> with large pocilloporid colonies being the most easily observed
> feature on the flat pavement. *Leptastrea* purpurea and *P.
> molokensis* were the most abundant species.
>
> Other: A number of large, fat white-tip reef sharks were found
> swimming in close proximity to the divers in very shallow water. A
> number of white-tips were also observed sleeping in large undercuts in
> about 10' depth.

**P&H-RJ-91** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1252 hrs     27° 53.952'N                  175° 54.897'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, N back reef and adjacent small lagoon pinnacles,
depth 3-30 feet, 2 transects, 10/11/00*

This site is located behind the western end of the long perimeter reef
that protects the northern lagoon from heavy wave action. At the time of
our survey, 10-foot waves from the northwest were breaking outside the
reef, pushing large amounts of water over the reef and into the lagoon
and past the study site. Most reef substrate surfaces were covered with
crustose coralline algae or live coral, with few loose sand deposits
above a depth of 30 feet, indicative of an environment constantly
exposed to strong water currents and turbulence. The pinnacles were
scalloped ridges of smooth, scoured pavement, and sharper ridges showed
holes and arches. Sand and rubble deposits were found in deeper water
lagoonward of the pinnacles. Although coral cover was low at the site
(20%), species diversity was exceptionally high (22 species), including
a new record for Hawaii, *Pavona clavus,* and the first report of the
rare coral *Leptoseris incrustans* at the atoll. The most abundant
corals were *Montipora verrilli, Leptastrea purpurea, Pocillopora
damicornis,* and *Porites lobata,* all low profile or encrusting forms.
No anthropogenic disturbances were evident at the site.

**P&H-RJ-93** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1108 hrs     27° 51.399'N                  175° 49.178'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, reticulate reef complex and coral gardens in the
deep east-central lagoon, depth 2-56 feet, no transects, 10/12/00*

The site is located in the deep central east lagoon where linear reefs
rise close to the sea surface and form auxiliary branches. The tops of
the reefs are covered with crustose coralline algae and live finger and
lobe coral formations (*Porites* spp). The slopes are steep and covered
with living finger coral (*P. compressa*) that extends to depths of more
than 50 feet. Strong currents were sweeping over the reef and through
small channels in the coral gardens at the time of our survey. The floor
of some shallow channels and reef flats are covered with a pavement of
crustose coralline algae, as well as isolated rubble and gravel
deposits. Thick fine sand deposits occur at the deep base of the coral
gardens, beyond depths of 50 feet. Large individual finger coral heads
of up to 8 feet in diameter were growing at intermediate depths, giving
the gardens an appearance of complex morphology and habitat relief.
Small sand channels meandered through the gardens, often dead-ending as
sand patches surrounded on three sides by cathedral-like walls of finger
coral. Aside from the dominant *P. compressa*, the small-cupped brain
coral *Cyphastrea ocellina* was abundant. *Pocillopora damicornis,
Porites lobata,* and bracket-like growths of *Montipora capitata* were
common. Coral cover averaged 80% although the total number of species is
low (7), due to finger coral monopolizing most suitable substrates.
Marine debris marked by an orange fishing net float was spotted 200m to
the west of the study site.

**P&H-RJ-95** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1331 hrs     27° 47.486'N                  175° 48.862'W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Reef, deep sand channel, lagoonward of Southeast
Island, SE corner of the atoll*, *depths 3-31 feet, no transects,
10/12/00*

A deep sand channel, most likely maintained by strong water currents,
occurs just north of Southeast Island. Scattered coral heads and small
pinnacles form the northern side of the channel. The survey consisted of
a SCUBA dive near the back reef end of the channel to the east, and
adjacent pinnacles, followed by a snorkel drift dive through the channel
to the west. Most all surfaces were covered with thick sand deposits,
including the steeply sloping walls and floor of the channel. The back
reef consisted of scattered live and dead coral heads of *Pocillopora*
spp and tracts of rubble. The pinnacles to the north consisted of hard
reef rock covered with mats of the green algae *Microdictyon* mixed with
sand and other seaweeds. Small patches of the seagrass *Halophila* sp
were reported on shallow, stable sand deposits near the pinnacles. The
channel itself was very deep along its middle section, exceeding 50
feet. Water clarity in the channel was poor and murky. Most likely the
channel serves as a pathway for wave driven water currents passing over
the southeast perimeter reef that must pass through the channel around
the eastern half of the island during their downhill journey into the
lagoon. Coral cover was low, overall less than one percent. The highest
coral cover was concentrated on the tops of the pinnacles. Marine debris
consisting of thick mooring lines and the remains of a lobster trap were
lying in shallower reaches of the channel.

**P&H-A37** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

fore reef spurs and sand channels off the reef bight just SE of
Southeast of South East Island, 10-24-01, 6-11m. (JM, DS; Cox: Laura
Johnson). GPS: 27° 46.367'N, 175° 58.677'W.

This survey site was located off the southeast ocean-facing fore reef
just to the SE of Southeast Island, within a bight or indentation of the
reef. The bight afforded more protection from SW swells compared to
other ocean-facing reefs along this stretch of reef. We anchored on the
east side of a large spur to the east of a large rippled carbonate sand
channel. Live coral cover averaged about 25%, slightly higher than
reported off more exposed reefs along the S coast of the atoll. Coral
species richness revealed only 11 species. Other interesting species
included a large sea hare (Aplysia), 2 large grey snappers, pods of
dolphins, boring urchins (*Echinometra, Echinostrephus)*, and common
occurrence of certain benthic algae, e.g. Jania etc. The dominant coral
is *Porites lobata*, primarily as encrusting sheets.

**P&H-A38** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

*shallow lagoon sand flats and slopes, S lagoon, just NW of Southeast
Island, 10-24-01, 1-4m. (JM, DS; Cox: Laura Johnson). GPS: none*

This site is located approximately 200m southwest of Southeast Island in
the southern lagoon of Pearl and Hermes Atoll. At the time of our survey
winds were strong out of the north and wind chop was sufficient to stir
up bottom sediments and reduce underwater visibility to about 4m. Bottom
substrates consisted of shifting sand, dead coral rubble and thick
expanses of benthic algae. The last may be stimulated by leaching
nutrients from the guano-rich deposits on the nearby island. The site
was not conducive to coral development due to a lack of suitable
attachment habitat and poor water quality and competition with benthic
algae. Only 6 species of corals were reported, none of which were
common. Of interest was the presence of *Psammocora stellata* on
shifting sand and rubble deposits.

**P&H-A39** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

narrow pass through the SW perimeter reef to the W of Seal and Kittery
Islands, **10-25-01**, 2-7m. (JM, DS; Cox: Chris Heldorfer). GPS: 27°
46.852'N, 175° 58.454'W.

This site is located off the southwest corner of the Pearl and Hermes
Atoll, with the site consisting of a narrow (200m) wide pass through the
perimeter reef, connecting the ocean to the lagoon. The deepest part of
the pass was narrow and close to the breakers on the north side, making
navigation tricky in poor light conditions. There were no currents in
the pass at the time of our survey, although there is strong evidence of
such at other times: the bottom environment was heavily scoured
including flattened rubble deposits on the floor of the pass and smooth
rounded cobbles and outcrops of hard coral. The inner, narrowest portion
of the pass was most scoured in appearance and coral cover was generally
low there. The bottom of the pass at its narrowest restriction was 25m
across and 6m deep. Lagoon-ward the pass shoaled and widened into
transitional lagoon sedimentary deposits. Seaward the pass deepened and
widened to more than 10m with live corals nestled on the elevated slopes
of reef outcrops or forming mounds on the floor of the pass. The
dominant coral was *Pavona duerdeni* on the slopes and *Montipora
capitata* mounds on the floor of the outer pass. Of interest was the
presence of the mushroom coral *Fungia scutaria* on the shallow back
habitats, and blue encrusting plates of *Montipora flabellata* on the
mounds and other elevated surfaces. Coral cover was less than 10% in the
inner pass and 50% in the outer pass. Some of the large *Pavona
duerdeni* colonies formed magnificent columns and rounded heads atop
pedestals or attached to the sides of rocky outcrops.

A large spotted knifejaw and several white tip reef sharks were present
in the pass. Marine debris in the form of cargo netting was snagged on
hard coral rock in the bottom of the outer pass.

Half way through our survey, I got word via ship's radio that my mom was
dying. The ship headed back to Midway that night, and I was on a plane
to Honolulu the next night and in Los Angeles the following morning. Mom
died early on Halloween Day in Anaheim, California.

**P&H-Rrm1** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1328 hrs     27.817100632N                 175.833683718W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, mound-shaped pinnacle, S lagoon, 3-59 ft, new
permanent 50m transect, 9/19/02, JM, MV*

This site was a failed attempt to reach 2000 site RJ-79, because the
coordinates were incorrect. Instead the site consisted of a mound reef
reaching to within 3 feet of the surface in the S central lagoon. Below
10 feet corals were nearly absent, but several species of *Pocillopora*
were clustered on the reef crest and many were bleached white including
large heads of *P. meandrina, P. molokensis,* and some *P. ligulata,*
but not *P. damicornis* which was colored lavender. One encrusting
*Porites lobata* was fluorescing a chartreuse green at a depth of 3 ft.
(3 pm). Bleaching was not evident below a depth of 10 ft although there
were few heads at depth. Permanent transect of 50m length was laid on
the reef crest and intentionally placed near clusters of the bleached
corals. Some of the colonies had bite marks on the branch tips or where
there had been settlement by invasive algae. Total coral cover was about
one percent. Substrate consisted of hard karstic reef rock overlain with
thick algal mats and sand on the reef crest. At depth the substrate was
mostly sand and rubble dominated by *Cladophora* with some *Halimeda.*
Transect was completely photoquadrated. Transect laid S to N.

**P&H-Rr2** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1532 hrs     27.822460165N                 175.888377978W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, shallow sand flat, SE lagoon, 10-15 ft.,
ground-truthing site, 9/19/02, JM, MV*

Site consisted of a shallow sand flat from depths of 10 to 15 feet, in a
broad sand-dominated portion of the SE central lagoon. Patches of algae
over mostly a sand and some rubble substrate. Benthic algae consisted of
old *Sargassum* overgrown with *Hypnea,* and *Dictyota.* Few corals at
the site, mostly small *Pocillopora damicornis & Porites lobata.*
Ground-truthing site in a broad area of no previous surveys. A few
outcrops of old dead coral also noted.

**P&H-Rrm3** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1226 hrs     27.864787873N                 175.792791273W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, central lagoon patch reef, and finger coral
community, 0-19 ft, new permanent 50m transect, 9/27/02, JM, MV*

A previous 2000 REA site where a new 50m permanent transect was set on
the shallow crescent-shaped extension of the finger coral community.
First stake set at the "left" or NW side with 3 ft-long pins installed
at 5m intervals. Entire line photo-quadrated. Site very still and
protected from wave action and corals very fragile.

**P&H-Rr4-6** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1444 hrs     27.865186684N                 175.751546212W

  1453 hrs     27.866158613N                 175.745281461W

  1506 hrs     27.867321725N                 175.738817908W
  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, skiff-based ground-truthing in shallow E lagoon
to back reef, 10 ft, 3 sites, 9/27/02, JM, MV*

Ground-truthing sites looking down through the water from the skiff.
Three sites in succession from lagoon towards the east perimeter back
reef. No corals noted.

**P&H-Rr7** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1525 hrs     27.858161676N                 175.742995009W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, E perimeter back reef, 1-8 ft., ground-truthing
site, 9/27/02, JM, MV*

Ground-truthing site via snorkeling at E back reef about 2 km south of
site of ship wreck visited in 2000. Up to 25% coral cover mostly
encrusting *Porites lobata,* and branching *Pocillopora ligulata.*
Encrusting *Leptastrea purpurea* also common and contributing to reef
growth. Geomorphology of back reef differs from that of other atolls.
Dominant substrate is crustose coralline algae with heavy overgrowth of
fleshy algae and turf. Gradual deepening lagoonward from 1 to 4 ft,
where corals achieve peak abudance and attenuate both seaward and
lagoonward of this zone. Much evidence of scour and erosion. Blocked
surge channels lead out to reef crest from the lagoon, some 4 ft deeper
than adjacent reef, consisting of piles of rubble and other rock
fragments. Site appears periodically exposed to heavy surf with little
protected refuge for large heads of *Porites evermanni* although one
large and several smaller finger coral microatolls noted. Coral
diversity moderate at site but fish schools aggregate in the dead end
surge channels behind the crest including a large school of knifejaws
and smaller schools of parrots, manini, goatfish, unicorn tangs, and
various wrasses.

**P&H-Rr(c?)8 Jim Maragos**

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1618 hrs     27.842548186N                 175.749867036W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, E perimeter back reef, 1-9 ft., ground-truthing
site, 9/27/02, JM, MV*

Site about 2 km further south from Rr7 in the same back reef zone. Very
similar to the previous site except more exposed to the elements
resulting in less coral cover, peaking at 10% and less coral variety.
Dominant substrate in back reef and back side of crest is crustose
coralline algae with heavy cover of fleshy algae and turf, as with the
previous site. Coral/coralline samples collected (as per Daria's notes).

**P&H-Rrm9** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1003 hrs     27.794535849N                 175.859424599W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, S pass, new permanent 50m transect, 20 ft.,
9/28/02, JM, MV, DS*

New permanent 50m transect in the center of the wide S pass, at a depth
of 20 ft, set from north to south (inside to outside). Stainless steel
pins were placed at 5m intervals with the first stake doubled at its
north end. Transect line was completely quadrated.

At the beginning of the dive, the water was clear and tide at high water
and slack. Then the tide began to ebb bringing turbid lagoon waters
through the pass to the ocean. Visibility dropped from about 100 ft to
30 ft by the end of the dive. Coral cover was sparse at about 1%
although there were numerous large dead heads of *Pocillopora spp.*
Bottom substrate consisted of consolidated rubble that was highly eroded
by boring urchins. Substrate was irregular with rises and holes between
10 and 20 ft. with the latter filled with a thin veneer of sand and
loose rubble

**P&H-Rr10** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1416 hrs     27.943026005N                 175.738941378W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, NE perimeter back reef, ground-truthing site,
10 ft., 9/28/02, JM, MV*

Site was at extreme NE rim of the atoll at the back reef zone, and
included two sub-sites: deeper back reef towards the lagoon, and
shallower back reef and reef crest towards the ocean. A line of emergent
karstic seawall blocks served as a demarcation between the two areas.
The blocks were about 3-4 ft. above the prevailing reef crest elevation
at mean low water mark. Rock samples were collected at the top and
bottom of the karstic formation, and additional rock samples of the
contemporary coralline algal ridge were also collected. Starting from
the surf zone the following zones could be delineated:

Coralline algal ridge of smooth pavement elevated at least a meter above
mean low water,

Crustose coralline algal fore crest, somewhat hummocky and lacking many
corals,

Coralline algae and lobe coral middle crest (2 ft) with about 20% live
coral cover,

Back reef crest (1-2 ft) with scoured coralline algae, lobe coral
(*Porites lobata)* & *Pocillopora ,*

Karstic reef blocks and surge channels in between them,

Deepened (4-12 ft) scour zone of coralline algal pavement and encrusting
blue coral (*Montipora flabellata et al,*

Deeper back reef with sand veneer floor and dead and 30% living corals
(*Montipora & Porites)*

Lagoon edge of back reef consisting of live microatolls of *Porites
compressa &* some *P. duerdeni*

Coral bleaching was limited to some of the *Montipora capitata &
Pocillopora ligulata* heads, and back reef appeared healthy, diverse and
abundant with respect to corals.

**P&H-Rrh11** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1641 hrs     27.867774000N                 175.738494795W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, E perimeter back reef shipwreck site,
hyperspectral re-measurements, 3 ft., 3 ft., JM, DS*

Resurvey of a 2000 REA and hyperspectral imagery signature collection
site. Daria collected additional reference signatures for the blue-green
alga, *Lyngbya,* the coral *Porites lobata,* the rusty iron of the mast,
and sand in the habitat discolored a yellow by the iron enrichment
effects of the rusting ship metal debris. The blue-green looked more
abundant during the 2002 survey.

**P&H-Rrm12** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  0950 hrs     27.763630027N                 175.973193021W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, W fore reef, spurs-and grooves (sand channels),
50 ft., new permanent 50m transect, 9/29/02, JM, MV, DS, JW, M, B*

New permanent 50m transect off the far western end of the atoll on the
fore reef at depths of 35 to 45 ft. Double pins placed at beginning of
transect off its northern inshore end. Transect placed perpendicular to
the reef slope, on the top of a prominent spur. Coral cover averaged
about 25% on the spurs and less than one percent in the grooves.
Crustose coralline algae otherwise predominated as the substrate cover
on elevated surfaces and sand in depressions and grooves. Spurs were
steep sided, variable in height and width, and often disarticulated. A
large sand channel bisected the general area, originating from upslope
shallower reefs beyond the site, although we t r ied to trace its
origin.. Moderately high biodiversity for corals including abundant
*Pavona duerdeni* in shallower water forming massive near continuous
platforms. Entire line photoquadrated including 10m beyond the end of
the pins for a total of 60m.

**P&H-Rrh13** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1200 hrs     27.888157670N                 175.936550128W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, N back reef & reef hole, groundtruthing and
hyperspectral signature site, 32 feet, 9/29/02, JM, MV, DS*

In search of large coral heads for coring, we selected this site as a
possibility, consisting of a very steep back reef environment adjacent
to a semi-enclosed deep reef hole. Bottom of the hole at a depth of
about 15m (50 ft.) and dominated with fine sands and platforms and
mounds of the finger coral *Porites compressa.* The structure of the
back reef wall appeared also to be composed of dead finger coral. Other
common corals included encrusting *Montipora spp, Fungia scutaria &
Pocillopora spp,* with most of the last bleached. The mushroom corals
were concentrated on a shallow ledge on the back reef slope at a depth
of about 10-15 ft.

In retrospect, the reef is not directly exposed to open sea swells as
there were several other linear reefs to seaward during our ride back to
the ship. In retrospect the environment was protected and lagoonal, with
deposition occurring throughout, and not completely suitable for corals
adapted to more turbulent ocean conditions

**P&H-Rrc14** Jim Maragos

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------
  1420 hrs     27.915922880N                 175.888323356W

  ------------ ----------------------------- -----------------------------

*Pearl and Hermes Atoll, N back reef, 3 nm to NW of previous site,
groundtruthing, hyperspectral, and coral collecting site, 11 ft.,
9/29/02, JM, DS*

A more typical back reef environment further to the NE, a distance of
about 6 km (3 nm) from the previous site. Again searching for *Porites
evermanni* for coring but suitable heads were not to be found. All of
this species had a more columnar growth form, were too small, had too
many lesions, or were bleaching. Instead, we collected two small
block-like samples of the coral that may yield 5 to 10 years of growth
rate data (Daria's ArcView notes indicate it is a *Porites evermanni*).

The site varied from 2-11 ft in depth and with no perceptible slope over
the 100m x 100m area inspected. Most common were secondary encrusting
growths of *Porites lobata* on elevated rounded heads, probably of the
same colonies, although difficult to determine due to heavy bioerosion
and lesions and shrimp channels. Other important corals were *Montipora
spp., Pocillopora spp., & Pavona duerdeni.* Virtually all of the middle
were bleaching along with most of the *Porites evermanni* and some of
the *Porites lobata.* Aside from about 40-50% live coral, other major
bottom types included crustose coralline algae and gravels and sands at
the base of the corals mosst of which were elevated above the bottom.
High relief for such a shallow environment. Seaward waves were breaking
on the reef crest which was too distant to inspect.

**2000 SUMMARY FOR PEARL AND HERMES REEF**

Although the *Rapture* teams surveyed over 20 sites at Pearl and Hermes,
the eastern half of the ocean side of the perimeter reef could not be
assessed because of heavy trade winds and corresponding seas. Thus,
there are serious gaps in coverage for the atolls, and some
generalizations below are subject to change, especially after reviewing
the notes from the *Cromwell* team surveys at Pearl and Hermes that
included four sites along the eastern ocean reefs.

The lagoon of the atoll is large and difficult to draw generalizations
regarding the abundance and distribution of corals and reefs. Many areas
of the shallow lagoon reef holes appear to be dominated by sediments
inimical to corals. Water circulation and exchange rates may be a factor
in dictating coral development in the holes. Where circulation is
sluggish, water temperatures rise during sunlit hours and may be
unfavorable to corals. In contrast, where there is good mixing within
pockets of the lagoon, either from tidal exchange or wave set up along
the windward reefs, then there is better likelihood of favorable
conditions for corals. Pinnacle reefs in the transition zone of the
large pass area are exposed to the best of two worlds: better access to
ocean water exchange and some protection from the damaging effects of
storms and large waves. Here the pinnacle reefs show both high coral
cover and diversity. Healthy spur-and-groove development along more
exposed reefs is evidence that the atoll is growing and accreting. Some
semi-protected southern-facing ocean reefs did not display-spur
and-grooves and may be accreting at slower rates or not at all. The
atoll has a moderately diverse assemblage of coral species, although not
as high as reported for the other large atoll, French Frigate Shoals.
This may be an artifact attributed to the lack of table coral
(*Acropora*) being absent at Pearl and Hermes and up to six or more
species being present at French Frigate Shoals.

**RAITA BANK**

**RAI-T1** Jim Maragos & Daria Siciliano

Raita Bank, SE side, 9/17/01, deep shelf, 25-29m. (JM, DS, LP, Cox:
Saunders). GPS: 25° 28.221'N, 169° 29.514'W

The study required a drift dive to survey this deep bank for the first
time. A strong, 2 kt current persisted throughout the dive, and with a
noticeable decrease in water temperature below a depth of 10m. Water
visibility was about 15m. Bottom habitat consisted of a scoured, level
shelf of old carbonate rock covered by a thin veneer of fine white sand,
covered by a net-like green mesh alga, Microdictyon setchellianum. There
was very little loose rock or rubble, suggesting that it would be swept
off the bank periodically by large waves and swells. Numerous rills
bisected the surface of the bottom in a random pattern. Small isolated
sand patches were present in depressions. Bottom relief was less that
0.5m. Corals were very rare, widely spaced, and consisted of only 3
species, Pocillopora capitata, Montipora capitata, and Porites
compressa. Some Pocillopora heads were partially bleached. Total coral
cover was much less than one percent. A few benthic macroalgae species
were widely scattered. Several large fish species were present: gray
reef sharks, unicorn surgeonfish, trevallies, and gray snappers. Total
bottom time at the site was less than 5 minutes, and there was very
little change in relief or bathymetry. Dare Devil Daria called the dive
soon after hitting bottom

**RAI-T2** Jim Maragos

*Raita Bank, SE side, 9/18/01, deep shelf, 24-27m. (JM, LP, Bill Mowatt,
Cox: Davis). GPS: 25° 26.32'N, 169° 33.62'W*

This survey also required a drift dive over the SE side of Raita Bank
about 4 nm from the previous site. A 1 kt current was setting to the SE,
and again there was a noticeable decrease in water temperature below a
depth of 10m. Water visibility was about 15-20m horizontal. Bottom
habitat was similar to the previous site except for the following:
bathymetric relief was higher (about 1m), and the shelf was more
hummocky and less flat. The green net algae *Microdictyon* was much more
abundant forming a continuous net over the hard coralline bottom and
trapping sand and attracting other algae, notably *Codium.* Coral cover
was higher than the previous site, about 1 to 5%, and more species were
present. As before, the rose coral *Pocillopora capitata* dominated the
coral community with *P. damicornis, P. ligulata, Porites compressa, and
Montipora capitata* less abundant*.* As with the previous site, very
little loose rubble or rocks were noted. The reef surface appeared
scoured and planed to a smooth flat surface as the result of eons of
wave action and storms from all directions.

There were defined holes in the bottom with sand covering the floor and
with many small reef fish species aggregating near the holes. Small
triggers, file fish, moray eels, and goatfish were noted, and the damsel
fish *Dascyllus albisella,* typically occupying the interstices of the
larger rose corals. Many dead standing and bleached rose corals were
observed, but no crown-of-thorns starfish were observed. The tops of
many of the colonies were broken or damaged. The cause of the bleaching
and breakage could not be determined. The breakage could be the result
of collisions with loose debris or the bite marks of large fish. The
former would result in random breakage of coral branches, while the
latter would be confined to the tip of the branches, but both types of
injuries were observed.

Of interest was the abundance of the blue sea star, *Linckia guildingi,*
near the bases of the standing corals, because the blue form of the
species is very rare in Hawaii. Also the sea urchin *Echinothrix
calamaris,* was locally abundant. We missed not having Dare Devil Daria
on our dive, and we almost cried (:\<). Video and wide angle slide
photos were taken at both sites 1 and 2 at Raita. No transects could be
laid at these depth and current conditions. Total bottom time was 18
minutes.

**RAI-T3** Jim Maragos

*Raita Bank, SE side, 9-19-01, deep shelf, 30-34m. (JM, LP, BM, Cox:
Davis)*

*GPS: 25° 25.024'N, 169° 35.112'W*

Site survey conducted off the southeast margin of the crest of Raita
Bank. Habitat was identical to previous site (R2) except as follows:
bottom currents exceeded 1 kt to 1.25 kt, and there was no noticeable
temperature drop at intermediate depths. Underwater visibility was about
20m. Bottom carpeted with growths of *Microdictyon* over hard coralline
substrate. Widely spaced rose coral heads, *Pocillopora spp.* Dominated
the coral community although many colonies were dead or in poor health.
Not as many erect corals were broken, but quite a few were bleached,
partially encrusted with algae or invertebrates, or were completely dead
(dead standing corals). The dead colonies were sites where rarer algae
and invertebrates could colonize the habitat. Sand patches were situated
on the floor of pot holes which were the aggregation sites for many
small fish. The crevices and holes on the bottom, and especially in the
holes were insufficient to completely hide larger fish, and thus the
environment may be habitat limited for larger fish. Algal diversity was
low, completely dominated by mesh like growths of *Microdictyon.* Six
species of corals were noted with the four *Pocillopora* most abundant.
Two new records consisted of *Pocillopora molokensis* and *Psammocora
stellata* (collected)*.* Seven total species of corals were reported
from Raita Bank during the 3 dives. Bottom time for R3 was 15 minutes.
Video, macro, and wide-angle photos collected.

BIG PICTURE SUMMARY: CORALS 2000

These notes summarize my "big picture" observations during the *Rapture*
expedition through the NW Hawaiian Islands in September-October 2000 and
2002, supplemented by some surveys at Midway in May 2000, and French
Frigate Shoals in May 1999. These notes will be updated as more data
become available.

The NWHI are healthy and pristine:

With the possible exception of Midway Atoll, which has been
substantially modified since the 1930's, the coral reefs of the entire
NWHI chain is in excellent health with little anthropogenic disturbance.
Coral populations are healthy, abundant and contributing to reef growth.
Surprisingly the coral fauna is also exceptionally diverse, with nearly
as many species as reported in the main islands, and including as many
as 10 species that are not now found in the main islands. For reasons
still unclear, the coral fauna at Midway is neither abundant nor
diverse.

Several new records and possibly some new species were discovered:

The trip reported at least ten new records for species that were
previously reported only from the main Hawaiian Islands. In addition the
expedition reported several new records for Hawaii as a whole. including
*Acropora cerealis, Pavona clavus,* and possibly some unidentified
*Acropora* and *Porites* species. Undescribed species of *Porites,
Montipora,* and possibly other genera were collected for analysis and
description.

Fauna shifts for some species along the chain:

Several genera showed changes in species distribution along the NWHI,
and several MHI species (*Porites rus, Montipora dilatata, etc.)* were
not reported. *Pocillopora, Porites, Montipora,* and *Acropora* also
showed changes in their distribution patterns. *Pocillopora meandrina*
and the less abundant *P. eydouxi* were more common near (and within)
the MHI end of the chain while *P. ligulata* and *P. elegans* were more
common at the NW end of the chain. For *Porites, P. rus*, a MHI species,
was absent in the NWHI, and the *P. lichen* form of *P. lobata* was more
common in the NW end of the chain. For *Montipora, M. patula* was more
common at the MHI end and another MHI species *M. dilatata,* was absent
from the NW end of the chain. In constrast, *M. cf turgescens, M.
verrilli, and M. tuberculosa* were more common at the NW end of the
chain, with the first yet to be reported from the MHI. *Acropora* showed
dramatic fauna discontinuities with 7 species now reported at French
Frigate Shoals and lesser totals at 4 adjacent islands and atolls
(Necker, Gardner, Maro, and Laysan). The preeminence of *Acropora* at
French Frigate Shoals and its close proximity to Johnston Atoll some 450
miles to the southwest, suggest that Johnston has served as the stepping
stone for successfully established species at French Frigate Shoals, and
in turn FFS has served as a stepping stone for successful establishment
of table corals on adjacent NWHI.

Basalt vs. carbonate coral faunal discrepancies:

The rare soft coral *Sinularia* was essentially confined to the basalt
islets, pinnacles and sea stacks at the MHI end of the NWHI chain. Other
corals may be similarly confined to the basalt islands including the
cave dwelling corals (*Tubastraea coccinea and Balanophyllia*).

Mega coral colonies

The lagoons and other protected places visited during the surveys
revealed the presence of mammoth size coral heads. To name a few: the
large *Pavona duerdeni, Porites compressa*, *Montipora cf turgescens*,
and *Porites lobata* heads at Kure, the large *M. cf turgescens* heads
at Midway, the huge flat table corals of *Acropora cytherea* and
*Porites* spp heads at French Frigate Shoals, and the spectacular sheets
of *Porites lobata, Montipora spp,* the sentinel heads of *Pavona
duerdeni,* and huge plate-like growths of *Montipora capitata* at Maro
Reef. These large corals reflect the stability of the environments where
these corals live over long time periods, measured in centuries. A few
large heads, including one *Pavona duerdeni* head at Kure were also
dead, indicative of some previous catastrophe that befell the long-lived
colonies.

Surprises at Kure and Maro:

I anticipated that Kure, as the most northern atoll in the world, would
be on the brink of falling off the edge of the Darwin Point and into
oblivion, and its coral fauna would be impoverished and struggling to
survive. Instead I was pleasantly surprised to find thriving healthy
reefs and a list of species comparable to any of the other islands we
visited during the expedition. In particular, the spur-and-groove
system, the bulwarks that determine the fate of atolls, appeared healthy
and growing, and deep lagoon and back reef habitats demonstrated
spectacular coral abundance and diversity. This was in stark contrast to
nearby Midway that appeared "sick". The other big surprise was Maro
Reef, where numerous *Cromwell* based surveys last month along windward
reefs painted a gloomy picture of stressed reefs, turbid waters, and
swirling dangerous currents. In contrast to the earlier surveys
constrained by NW swells, the *Rapture* was able to visit four leeward
reefs and discovered that at least these areas showed incredibly rich
species diversity, including table corals, and healthy, abundant, and
growing corals, some at mammoth size, especially *M. capitata* heads at
the base of the reef slope on the "lagoon" side of the reef. In fact our
first Maro dive was the best I've ever experienced for any coral dive in
the Hawaiian islands.

Certainly we need to devote much more survey time at Maro, as well as
Midway and Lisianski.

Total coral fauna for the trip:

Excluding the tallies from Dan Van Ravenswaay and Dave Gulko, I add up
48 species of corals and anemones, of which 42 species are stony corals,
many more than previously reported from the leewards. When all of our
totals are combined, the species list for stony corals will exceed 50
species in the NWHI, comparable, if not exceeding the diversity of
corals in the main Hawaiian islands. I look forward to the many
interesting analyses ahead, not just for corals but for the other
denizens of the NW reefs