Fish Recorded at Reef Sites

A key finding from this study is that fish species with broad vertical depth ranges tend to be more widespread and less selective in their habitat preferences, though exceptions exist. For instance, the species Acanthurus sohal, despite having a narrow depth range (20 m), shows a high occurrence rate (46%) due to its preference for shallow zones behind reef crests. The research analyzed fish data collected from 30 transect sites and observations around the Conshelf 2 underwater garage on Shaab Rumi, focusing on relative frequency, distribution by depth, species diversity in Dungonab Bay versus external sites, and the relationship between maximum depth range and occurrence percentage. Conducted in 1972–1973, this study provides valuable insights into fish behavior and habitat selection in coral reef ecosystems.

Vine, P. J. (2023). Fish Recorded at Reef Sites. Growth and Decay of Coral Reefs, 22–34. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003335795-6