Andros Barrier Reef

location

Bahamas, southeast of Florida, extends about 200km

important

1. over 160 recorded species of fish

2. US $150million for tourism on diving and snorkelling

3. barrier reefs protect the coastline from storm surges

threat

1. overfishing

   1. intensive fishing can deplete fish stocks, causing imbalance

   2. trawling nets and anchors and cause physical damage

2. pollution

   1. agricultural chemicals and silt discharge from rivers reduces sunlight penetration

3. climate change

   1. high water temperature, triggers stress reaction in corals, causing coral bleach

sustainable management

1. in 2002, The Andros West Side National Park affords protection from development for over 50% of Andros Island, the management planning aims to balance economic activities

2. north and south marine park have regulated fishing, anchoring and scuba diving

3. The Crab Replenishment Reserve ensure sustainable carb population for future.