Species diversity and distribution of scleractinian coral at Xisha Islands, China

doi:10.3724/SP.J.1003.2011.06132

Abstract

Abstract:

Coral surveys at Xisha Islands in the South China Sea in 2006 recorded 188 species and subspecies in 45 genera and 13 families. Combined with literature records, a total of 204 species of scleratinian. corals in 50 genera and 13 families are known from the Xisha Islands, a list which includes almost all known species in China as well as 62 new record species. The scleratinian fauna was dominated by branching species which are generally rapidly growing corals. Various diversity indices revealed that the reefs at Huaguang, Treasure Island and Yongxing Island exhibited the highest species diversity. With increasing attention paid to coral reef conservation, it is desirable to establish key protected areas based on the characteristics of scleractinian species diversity and distribution.

Key words: scleractinian, diversity, distribution, Xisha Islands, Hainan

Hui Huang, Feng You, Jiansheng Lian, Jianhui Yang, Xiubao Li, Zhijun Dong, Chenglong Zhang, Tao Yuan. Species diversity and distribution of scleractinian coral at Xisha Islands, China[J]. Biodiv Sci, 2011, 19(6): 710-715.

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URL: https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/10.3724/SP.J.1003.2011.06132

https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/Y2011/V19/I6/710

Figures/Tables 3

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