Marine Research and Conservation in the Coral Triangle

Book excerpt: The Coral Triangle in south-east Asia contains over three quarters of the total number of known coral species and more than half of the world's coral reefs, whilst providing resources to support the livelihoods of around 120 million people. The Wakatobi National Park is centrally located within this region, encompassing 13,000km2 and including a diversity of reefs, seagrass and mangrove habitats whilst also being home to around 100,000 people. The sustainable use of resources within the Wakatobi is therefore of significance with regard to both global marine conservation issues and the well-being of the resident population. Drawing upon contributions from experts in the natural and social sciences, this book offers the first detailed insight into the status of the marine environment in the Wakatobi.