Summer 2009 - Distance Learning Schedules

Because butterflyfish are conspicuous inhabitants of coral reefs throughout the Indo-Pacific region and can be easily and inexpensively surveyed, these small fish are ideally suited to help in efforts to promote volunteer monitoring, community education and the conservation of Indo-Pacific coral reefs. This on-line course describes a non-invasive and “low-tech” approach to assessing and monitoring coral reef habitats. It is also designed to serve as an introduction of obligate coralivore butterflyfish behavior for experienced marine science students, as well as individuals with limited technical science background and expertise. Contents include, background on the development of the “butterflyfish indicator” concept, step-by-step instructions for observing coral-feeding butterflyfish behavior, and how to relate changes in these traits to changes in coral habitat condition, as well as basic techniques for assessing coral and fish biodiversity and abundance. Successful completion of this course will provide participants with an understanding of that potential value of butterflyfish monitoring in: community-based participation, education, outreach and training in monitoring their local coral reefs; coordinated and joint professional and volunteer coral reef assessments; and NGO involvement in resource management issues.

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