Description: The project focused on enhancing TAAF’s coral ecosystem management in the Scattered Islands by implementing an innovative eco-acoustic monitoring system designed specifically for Europa’s isolated and evolving ecosystems. This pioneering tool passively recorded coral reef soundscapes alongside visual assessments to assess their condition. An autonomous underwater station was installed for continuous monitoring, aiding in Europa Island’s management strategies. Positioned within the Indian Ocean’s biodiversity hub, Europa’s relatively untouched reefs held global heritage significance and potential for restoring nearby impacted reefs. The initiative established links between acoustic indicators and ecosystem functions, contributed to the Europa RAMSAR management plan, and facilitated effective communication and result dissemination. The recorded data strengthened TAAF’s adaptability to biological rhythms and disturbances, essential for proactive management measures. The CORCOPA project successfully equipped TAAF with a robust monitoring tool, securing the future of Europa’s reefs. It underscored the efficacy of acoustic monitoring, particularly in remote locations like Europa Island, showcasing its potential in monitoring coral ecosystems.
Duration: 16 months
