Coral reef health assessment and ecological recovery potential in Seram Laut Island, Maluku, Indonesia

This study examined coral reef health and the potential for ecological recovery in the coastal waters of Seram Laut Island, Maluku, Indonesia. Field surveys were conducted at nine stations using the Underwater Photo Transect method along 100 m transects at approximately 3 m depth, combined with Snorkelling Visual Census. Live coral cover, benthic life-form composition, and habitat similarity among stations were analysed using CPCe and MINITAB 19. Live coral cover ranged from 22.81% to 60.15%, classifying two stations as good, five as moderate, and two as poor. Cluster analysis showed habitat similarity values exceeding 95%, grouping stations with comparable benthic structures and disturbance histories, which is relevant for spatial conservation planning. Signs of natural recovery were recorded at Stations 7 and 9, indicated by the regrowth of branching Acropora tubulata and massive corals on dead substrates. These results demonstrate that coral reefs under customary Sasi management can retain ecological resilience despite localized disturbances. This study provides empirical evidence linking benthic similarity patterns and natural regeneration processes within a local wisdom-based management context, supporting adaptive protection strategies and community-based monitoring for long-term coral reef conservation.