Trophic structure of reef fishes and relationship of corallivore fishes with hard coral in Kepulauan Seribu, Jakarta

Abstract

Abstract Corallivore became one of the biotic components that relate with coral coverage. The objective of this study was to determine the trophic structure of reef fishes, as well as the relationship between corallivores and hard corals in the northern part of Kepulauan Seribu. Reef fish species and benthic coverage were assessed using underwater visual census (UVCs) and Line Intercept Transect (LIT). The results showed that there were 120 reef fish species belonging to 7 trophic groups and 19 families. Pomacentridae and Labridae are the most abundant fish families. Based on reef fish components, Sepa Besar reef fish characteristics were dissimilar than the other sites. The highest coral cover was found in Pelangi Island, which related with the high abundance of corallivores. An abundance of corallivore groups showed a positive correlation (R2 = 0.7786) with hard coral cover. The abundance and diversity of reef fish were affected by the availability and variety of food. Our study shows that coral covers affect the abundance of corallivore fishes. Variability and existence of food for reef fishes are really important for resort priprietors to be aware of especially for those who manage diving and snorkeling activities.