Effects of Recreational Scuba Diving on Coral Reefs: Trampling on Reef-Flat Communities

This study investigated the effects of trampling by scuba divers and snorkellers on reef-flats of coral reefs near Sharm-el-Sheikh, a popular resort in Egypt. There were significantly more damaged coral colonies and loose fragments of live coral in heavily-trampled than in little-trampled areas. Percentage cover of bare rock and rubble was also significantly greater; conversely, numbers of hard coral colonies and total percentage live coral cover were lower. Coral colonies were smaller in trampled compared to control areas, with average height and diameter significantly less in heavily-trampled areas. An area regularly visited by snorkellers exhibited intermediate effects. Coral species composition and the relative abundances of different coral growth forms did not appear to be affected by trampling