The red coral populations of the gulfs of Naples and Salerno: human impact and deep mass mortalities

A significant decline in red coral (Corallium rubrum) populations, with densities dropping to fewer than five colonies per square meter in most areas of the Gulf of Naples, highlights severe stress likely exacerbated by water pollution and sedimentation. Healthy populations were only found around the Phlegrean Islands (Ischia and Procida), while historical coral banks showed extensive mortality. A recent mass mortality event along the Amalfi coast, affecting 80% of colonies estimated to be 70 years old, suggests potential causes such as localized downwelling currents or sudden warm water emissions linked to volcanic activity. The study used Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) surveys in 2010 and 2012 to assess coral health across 25 sites, revealing the impact of human activities like trawling and fishing on these deep-sea ecosystems.

Bavestrello, G., Bo, M., Canese, S., Sandulli, R., & Cattaneo-Vietti, R. (2014). The red coral populations of the gulfs of Naples and Salerno: human impact and deep mass mortalities. Italian Journal of Zoology, 81(4), 552–563. https://doi.org/10.1080/11250003.2014.950349