Benthic Cover Composition and Fish Community Structure in Coral Reef Communities of Davao Oriental, Southeastern Mindanao, Philippines

Jefferson A. Centro; Ariel  C. Eballe; France Guillian B. Rapiz; Emily S. Antonio

doi:10.55927/eajmr.v5i6.154

Authors

Jefferson A. Centro Davao Oriental State University
Ariel C. Eballe Davao Oriental State University
France Guillian B. Rapiz Davao Oriental State University
Emily S. Antonio Davao Oriental State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/eajmr.v5i6.154

Keywords:

coral reefs, benthic cover, reef fish, marine ecosystems, Davao Oriental

Abstract

Coral reef ecosystems support marine biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal livelihoods but remain vulnerable to anthropogenic and environmental disturbances. This study assessed benthic cover composition and fish community structure in coral reef communities in Davao Oriental, Southeastern Mindanao, Philippines. Benthic cover was evaluated using transect-based photo quadrat methods, while reef fish communities were assessed through underwater visual census. Results showed substantial spatial variation in reef condition among sites. Live hard coral cover ranged from 3.8% to 60.3%, with most reefs classified under poor conditions category. Algal assemblages, dead coral with algae, and abiotic substrates dominated several reef areas, indicating varying levels of degradation. Fish abundance and biomass also varied considerably across sites. The findings provide baseline ecological information useful for reef conservation and management planning.

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