Résumé
- The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. The surveys rely on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. Chesterfield and Bellona remote reefs and atolls are located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, northwest of New Caledonia. -This 2013 survey is the first scientific survey covering the entire area, with a sampling design stratified according to reef type. 203 stations were validated within 10 days. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 565 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 34 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analysed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). - 220 fish species (and one turtle species and two sea snake species), belonging to 36 families were observed. Three families were observed on more than 80% of stations: surgeonfish, wrasses and parrotfish. Three other families were observed on 50% to 80% of stations: butterflyfish, goatfish and serranids. Lethrinids and siganids are relatively less abundant in the area. 25 species were recorded for the first time in the area. - The coral displays an exceptionally good health with high living coral covers, a large diversity (23 species) and relatively high abundance of butterflyfish. Sharks were observed very frequently (43% of stations), as well as jacks (18% of stations). - Fish communities are diversified, particularly in the Living Coral habitat; abundances are generally higher in Chesterfield than in Bellona. Although all trophic groups are abundant, carnivores dominate the assemblage. - Fished species are rather abundant, more in Chesterfield than