Determination of most accurate survey size and method for visual counting of coral trout (Plectropomus spp.)

Abstract

Between January and May 1983 coral trout surveys were carried out on 56 reefs in the Cairns and Central Sections of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. On 32 of these reefs density estimates were made using two different survey methods. One of these methods was the standard hectare count (150 x 67m) previously developed by GBRMPA in a series of workshops held in the Capricorn Group of reefs. The second method used a much smaller survey area; a transect 50m long and 20m wide (0.1 ha).