http://www.britishecologicalsociety.org/journals_publications/journalofappliedecology/index.php

Julie P. Hawkins and Callum M. Roberts
Research Center, Sharim-el- Sheikh, Egypt
Journal of Applied Ecology 1993, 30, p.25-30.

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the effects of trampling by scuba divers and snorkelers on reef-flats of coral reefs near Sharim-el- Sheikh, a popular resort in Egypt.

There were significantly more damaged coral colonies and loose fragments of live coral rocks in heavily trampled areas. Percentage cover of bare rock and rubble was also significantly greater; conversely numbers of hard coral colonies and total percentage of live coral cover were lower.

Coral colonies were smaller in trampled compared to control areas, with average height and diameter significantly less in heavily trampled areas. An area regularly visited be snorkelers exhibited intermediate effects.

Coral species composition and the relative abundances of different coral growth forms did nor appear to be affected by the trampling.

Several of the effects detected differed between outer and middle zones of the reef flat, suggesting that some communities were more vulnerable to trampling than others.

In addition to causing biological damage, trampling reduced the aesthetic appeal of the reef-flat for tourists. An effective management strategy might therefore be to contain trampling within narrow areas rather than allowing free access by divers.