INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
Inventory of beneficial marine life of Costa Rica"s Atlantic coral reef
Studying the marine life of Costa Rica"s Atlantic coral reef system to identify new fishing opportunities, the author of this report found instead that the coral reefs and their inhabiting sea life are dead or dying and, further, that this has had profound consequences for the economic and cultural patterns of coastal villages.
Robinson, Steve · 1987
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Abstract
It may also eventually affect the sport fishing industry, a significant source of foreign exchange for the country. Evidence is cited that the reefs are dying because sunlight has been blocked by sediment washing down from banana fields along the Rio Estrella. Based upon his own direct observation and conversations with fishermen, the author describes the prevalence of individual species (adults or juveniles) of: ornamental fish; miscellaneous fish species; invertebrates; food fish (including lobsters, an important commercial species, now declining very rapidly); and marine organisms inhabiting the Gandoca Lagoon. In conclusion, recommendations are made for coral reef rehabilitation, reform of banana field practices, and possible restitution payments for the affected fishermen from the banana companies.
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