The Reef Visual Census: a review of an essential long-term data source for reef-fish management in Florida

Abstract

The Reef Visual Census is a collaborative effort that conducts standardized reef fish surveys on coral reefs and hard-bottom habitats across southern Florida. The combined efforts of multiple agencies and organizations have resulted in a program with a strong sampling methodology, broad spatial coverage, the ability to maintain a long time series of data, and the versatility to be used in a variety of ways. The Reef Visual Census has provided an essential data set for reef fish management in Florida since 2003. We present the importance of this data set using case studies that cover stock assessments, marine protected areas, and emerging management uses. This review highlights the utility of the Reef Visual Census, demonstrates the benefits of a long-term collaborative partnership, outlines appropriate applications for the data, and suggests future uses.