Transect Method Research Articles

The Mycobiota Diversity Associated with Mistletoe (Viscum album L.) in Poland

The spread of mistletoe, which mainly affects Scots pine in Europe’s managed forests, has become a serious ecological and economic problem, exacerbated by climate change and drought stress. Research into mistletoe-associated mycobiota provides crucial insights into the biology, ecology and distribution of these fungi and forms the basis for sustainable plant protection and effective management strategies. The aim of this study was to identify the fungal species associated with mistletoe (Viscum album L.) at 75 sites across Poland, with a focus on the northeastern regions of the country. The field work included a systematic and targeted search using the transect method, followed by laboratory analysis, during which fungal samples were prepared and examined under both light and scanning electron microscopes. The genetic analysis was carried out using ITS sequencing to confirm the presence of pathogen-specific fungi in the majority of V. album samples examined. The results showed four fungal species associated with the mycobiota of mistletoe: Sphaeropsis visci, Plenodomus visci, Cylindrodendrum hubeiense and Septoria krystynae. It is noteworthy that two of these species (P. visci and C. hubeiense) have not yet been detected in Poland. Based on these findings, the distribution areas of the identified fungal species were mapped accordingly.

ANALYSIS OF MANGROVE FOREST VEGETATION ON MOLAS BEACH, BUNAKEN DISTRICT, MANADO CITY

The lack of scientific information about the current condition of the mangrove ecosystem on the Molas beach in the Bunaken District of Manado City is an important reason to conduct a study related to the analysis of mangrove forest vegetation. The purpose of this research is to identify the types of mangroves and to find the Important Value Index (INP) of mangroves on the Molas beach in the Bunaken District of Manado City. Data collection was conducted using the line transect method with plots at only one observation station, which was then analyzed to determine the Importance Value Index (INP). Based on the observations, it was found that four types of mangroves were present at the research location. The dominant mangrove species are Bruguiera Cylindrica, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Aegiceras cosniculatum, and Ceriops tagal. The substrate condition, which is dominated by muddy sand, and the water quality parameters that affect mangrove growth generally still meet the standards for mangrove growth. The species Ceriops tagal has the highest values of Relative Density, Relative Frequency, and Relative Dominance, resulting in the highest INP. Meanwhile, the lowest INP was found in the species Bruguiera gymnorrhiza in the tree category

Assessing Coral Reef Health in Northern Waters of Penata Besar Island West Kalimantan

Penata Besar Island is designated as one of the Coastal and Small Island Conservation Areas (KKP3K) in West Kalimantan, is a critical site for conserving coral reefs and reef fish. Currently, global climate change and anthropogenic activities have exacerbated coral reef bleaching worldwide. In the context of escalating global climate change and human-induced threats, this study evaluates the health condition of coral reefs in the northern waters of Penata Besar Island, Bengkayang Regency. An exploratory approach was employed, utilizing the Line Intercept Transect (LIT) method across four stations at two distinct depths (2-3 m and 5-6 m). The results revealed that coral cover varied with depth. At a depth of 2-3 m, live coral coverage was between 51.2% and 62.4%, classified as good, while at 5-6 m, coverage ranged from 30.4% to 49.4%, categorized as fair. Coral Massive (CM) was the predominant growth form observed. The diversity index (H') ranged from low to medium, the Evennes index (E) from medium to high, and the dominance index (C) was categorized as low. These findings highlight the varying health of coral reefs in different depths and provide a basis and essential insights for targeted conservation efforts.

Research Into the Bee Population (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Apiformes) in the Grassland Habitats of Cisowsko-Orłowiński Landscape Park as Reinforcement for Educational Awareness of a Society

Abstract The aim of the research, conducted from April to October 2018–2019, was to characterize the bee populations (Apiformes) in phytosociological diverse grassland areas of Cisowsko-Orłowiński Landscape Park (C-OLP), located in Małopolska Upland. Such a characteristic was a crucial condition to perform further steps aimed at preventing threats to these insects. The transect method and Moericke traps were applied to sample bees. 126 bee species were recorded in four research areas with Apidae family representatives being dominant (44.9%). The transect method proved more efficient than the traps since it provided 123 insect species. Species diversity H’ and equivalence J’ indices reached the highest parameters in fields (FI) and meadows (ME) and the lowest in xerothermic grasslands (XG). Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient demonstrated positive and strong correlation of variables H’ and J’ and S. It applied to both the transect method and the traps, the latter demonstrating bigger correlation.

Avian abundance and diversity in three urbanized university campuses at different elevations in Northern Mindanao, Philippines

ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of urbanization and elevation on avian diversity across three university campuses in the Philippines. Urbanization, a significant driver of global environmental change, negatively affects biodiversity by altering natural habitats. Birds, frequently used as bioindicators, are vital subjects for studying urban impacts due to their visibility and sensitivity to environmental changes. This research compares the abundance of bird families across campuses at different elevations, revealing significant variations influenced by urban structure, vegetation, and resource availability. Line transect, point count, and mist-netting methods were employed to survey the birds in the study area following established methods. The family Pycnonotidae is most abundant in the low-elevation urban campus (University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines - Cagayan de Oro), while families like Nectariniidae and Cuculidae are more prevalent in the high-elevation campus (USTPClaveria). These findings underscore the importance of habitat diversity and resource availability in supporting avian communities. The study highlights the potential of urbanized university campuses to serve as refuges for biodiversity if managed appropriately. Enhancing habitat complexity, maintaining green spaces, and ensuring diverse food resources are crucial for sustaining bird populations. The results emphasize the need for targeted conservation efforts within urban campuses to preserve and promote avian diversity in increasingly urbanized landscapes.

Ecological Index And Ecosystem Status Of Mangroves In The Waters Of Parang Island, Seram Bagian Timur Regency, Maluku Province

The mangrove ecosystem on Parang Island is one of the important habitats in supporting the productivity of the surrounding waters. Therefore, an analysis of the condition of the mangroves on Parang Island is very important to understand the status and trend of changes in the mangrove ecosystem, so that appropriate conservation and management strategies can be formulated. This study aims to determine the physical-chemical parameters of the waters, analyze the density, percent cover, and status of the mangrove ecosystem in the waters of Parang Island. Mangrove data was collected using the belt transect method, while the physical and chemical parameters of the waters were measured in-situ by making observations at 4 research stations. The results showed that the average water temperature at each station ranged from 29.5°C, the average salinity was 26 ppt, the average current speed was 0.24 m/s, the average pH was 5.25, and the average clarity was 73.18%. There are 4 species of mangroves in the waters of Parang Island, namely Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora stylosa, Sonneratia alba, and Bruguiera gymnorhiza. The highest average relative density in the tree category is owned by Rhizophora apiculata, and the lowest is represented by Brugueira gymnorhiza. The highest sapling category is represented by Rhizophora stylosa, and the lowest by Brugueira gymnorhiza, while for the seedling category, the highest relative density is represented by Rhizophora apiculata, the lowest by Sonneratia alba. The highest average mangrove cover is owned by the Rhizophora apiculata species, and the lowest is represented by the Brugueira gymnorhiza species. The condition of the Rhizophora apiculata mangrove is in a moderate status, while Rhizophora stylosa, Sonneratia alba, and Brugueira gymnorhiza species are in a rare status.

How to Count Parrots: Comparing the Performance of Point and Transect Counts for Surveying Tasman Parakeets (Cyanoramphus cookii)

Obtaining precise estimates of population size and trends through time is important for the effective management and conservation of threatened species. For parrots (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae), obtaining such estimates can be challenging, particularly for cryptic species that occur in low densities in complex and/or fragmented habitats. We used a statistical resampling approach with the aim to compare the reliability and precision of counts for the critically endangered Tasman parakeet (Cyanoramphus cookii) that were taken using two methods on Norfolk Island (Pacific Ocean), namely, fixed-point counts and line transect counts. The detections obtained during fixed-point counts had better estimated precision (0.274) than line transect counts (0.476). The fixed-point method was also more efficient, yielding 1.338 parakeet detections per count compared to the 0.642 parakeet detections per count obtained by the line transect method. Although Tasman parakeets can be detected by either of these methods, our research demonstrates that the fixed-point method is more precise and reliable. These findings can help prioritise resources for the long-term monitoring of recovering populations of this species and similar island species.

IDENTIFIKASI DAN KARAKTERISTIK MORFOLOGI POLEN PAKAN KUPU-KUPU (IMAGO) DI JALUR WISATA GOA SAMPE MARTA KABUPATEN KUTAI KARTANEGARA KALIMANTAN TIMUR

ampe Marta Cave Tourism is located in Kutai National Park, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, East Kalimantan, and is one of the natural tourism areas with high biodiversity. The tourist route in this area offers natural beauty and a habitat that supports the lives of various butterfly species. This study aims to identify plants that are food sources (nectar) and non-nectar, types of butterflies, and the characteristics of pollen from each food plant. This study uses the transect method, namely taking samples of flowers and butterflies along the route, and the acetolysis method to see the morphological characteristics of pollen. The results of the study showed that there were 19 species from 11 families of nectar-eating plants identified as being utilized by butterflies (imago) as a source of nectar, where Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae), Asystasia gangetica (Family Acanthaceae), Leea indica (Family Vitaceae) were the dominant species that were often visited. In contrast, non-nectar feed such as minerals, rotten fruit, and animal feces, where out of 14 butterfly species identified, 11 dominant species sucked minerals on the banks of rivers or mud puddles, two species visited rotten fruit, and one species was seen in animal feces. Nectar feed has the characteristics of large and round-elongated pollen, which is more efficient for sticking to the insect's body. In contrast, the round-elongated oblate shape in Oxalis barrelieri shows strategic differences in the transfer of varying pollen norms, such as echinate and scabrate. The results of this study can be a reference for butterfly researchers to provide an overview of the diversity of nectar-producing plant feed along with its morphological characteristics and non-nectar feed utilized by butterflies on the Sampe Marta Cave tourist route

Kelimpahan Bintang Laut (Asteroidea) di Pantai Awang Kabupaten Lombok Tengah

This research aims to determine the abundance of starfish (Asteroidea) at Awang Beach, Central Lombok Regency. This type of research is exploratory descriptive. Using the quadrant transect method, sampling was carried out at three station points, namely station I, II and III. Data collection techniques include direct observation and documentation. The parameter measured is the abundance of starfish. The research results showed that the average value of the starfish abundance index at the three station points was 0.288 ind/m2, in the low category.

Effects of human disturbance on the distribution and abundance of large mammals in Abijata-Shalla Lakes National Park, Ethiopia

The increasing human pressure has threatened wildlife conservation, even in protected areas. However, findings reporting the effects of human on wildlife conservation are not consistent. This study aimed to investigate the effect of human disturbance on the distribution and abundance of mammals in Abijata-Shalla Lakes National Park considering the consumptive and non-consumptive modes of human activities. The study was conducted from September 2017 to February 2018 in three selected sites, which were stratified based on human disturbance as nature conserved areas, sites engaged in consumptive livelihood, and ecotourism sites. Data were collected using a line transect method. The distribution and abundance data were analyzed using Chi-square tests and one-way ANOVA, respectively. There was a significant difference on the distribution of target wild animals in the selected sites; greater kudu (P < 0.001), warthog (P < 0.01), and bohor reedbuck (P = 0.03) were highest in the “nature conserved” site. Human disturbance also significantly affected the abundance of warthog (P = 0.028), greater kudu (P < 0.001), and bohor reedbuck (P = 0.024). Greater kudu distribution was limited in nature conserved site. However, Warthog and Bohor Reedbuck were distributed in all sampling sites; nature conserved sites hold the highest population abundance. The results indicate that consumptive local livelihood and ecotourism disturbances adversely affected the distribution and abundance of mammals relative to the nature reserved site. However, ecotourism favored some mammal species from the consumptive local people’s livelihood activities. Thus, to reduce the impact of human disturbances on wildlife conservation, monitoring and controlling the level of human disturbance is urgent. Sustainable practices such as community engagement, awareness creation and alternative livelihood options should be proposed.

KERAGAMAN JENIS BURUNG DI KAWASAN PENGAMATAN BURUNG BIDADARI KALI BATU PUTIH, HALMAHERA BARAT, MALUKU UTARA

Kali Batu Putih ‘Standardwing Bird of Paradise Observation Area’ is located in West Halmahera, North Maluku. The forest in this area is a habitat for various species of birds, such as the Standardwing Bird of Paradise which is the icon of this location. This research was conducted with the aim of analyzing the diversity of bird species in the Kali Batu Putih ‘Standardwing Bird of Paradise Observation Area’. Bird species observations were carried out using a combination of line transect and point count methods. Bird species data collection was also carried out using the MacKinnon species list method. The forest conditions at the research location are secondary lowland forests at an altitude of 100-200 m asl. A total of 32 species of birds from 22 families were found in the research location. The Psittacidae family, the parrot group, has the largest number of species. Based on the feeding guild, insectivorous and frugivorous species are more dominant. There are three bird species categorized as near threatened on the IUCN red list and 11 species are protected by law in Indonesia. The number of endemic bird species is quite abundant, as many as 14 species or 44% of all species found. The large number of endangered, protected, and endemic bird species needs to be a concern by area managers in increasing bird conservation efforts in the Kali Batu Putih area. Conservation steps can be taken through habitat management activities, periodic monitoring, increasing biodiversity research, and developing ecotourism governance by involving communities around the forest.

Scale-Dependent Habitat Nestedness and Its Implications for Anuran Conservation in the Chengdu Region: A Multi-Extent Analysis.

Nestedness in community ecology predicts that species in a species-poor site should be a subset of species of a species-rich site. A variety of ecological mechanisms have been offered to explain community nestedness; however, few studies have systematically discussed the issue of scale dependence when interpreting community nestedness. This study conducted surveys of anuran species data in the vicinity of Chengdu, Sichuan, in the summers of 2019-2020, using the transect method. The study area was divided into 23 sampling sites and 8 regions to explore the relationship between environmental factors and the nested distribution pattern of anuran communities under different sampling extents (with sampling buffers set at 1 km, 2 km, and 5 km). The WNODF (weighted-nestedness metric based on overlap and decreasing fill) results indicated that anurans exhibited a strong nested pattern at both the sampling sites scale and the regional scale. The habitat matrix test results suggested that a small-scale study area requires a correspondingly small habitat-sampling extent to effectively test for habitat nestedness. As the study area expands, the habitat-sampling range can be appropriately increased. The nested pattern of anurans in the vicinity of Chengdu can only be explained by habitat nestedness, as a Spearman's correlation analysis showed that other environmental factors (area size, connectivity index, concentration index, proximity index, and distance to the city center) were not significantly correlated with the nested sequences of sampling points and regions. Therefore, regarding the conservation strategies for anurans in the vicinity of Chengdu, we recommend prioritizing the protection of areas with higher habitat diversity.

Altitudinal Variations of Ground Species in the Southern Aravalli regions of Rajasthan, India

Ground layer species sustain a variety of plants and animals; and maintain a healthy and resilient forest ecosystem by contributing to ecological functioning, structural support, and biodiversity. The western Indian Aravalli range is noted for its vegetation. Studies from these regions indicate that various environmental factors influence plant diversity and its distributions. The present study examines the impacts of altitude on ground species in Rajasthan's southern Aravalli hill ranges. We conducted field investigations year-round in Phulwari Ki Nal Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary at different altitudes. A random transect method was used; five 1m2 plots were laid at every 250m interval. Species’ names and numbers were recorded from sampling plots. Sanctuary-wise species richness, density, and diversity were analyzed and related with altitude. The protected areas of Southern Aravalli do not follow an altitude-specific pattern in ground species distribution. Specific lower altitude ranges had the most species richness, density, and diversity. While altitude showed both positive and negative correlations with respect to ground species richness, diversity and density. The study findings help in conserving and preserving ground layer species in the Aravalli regions of Rajasthan.

The safety and efficacy of stapler method for transection of the pancreatic parenchyma during pancreatoduodenectomy (STRAP-PD trial): study protocol for a randomized control trial.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a highly difficult and invasive type of gastrointestinal surgery. Prevention of postoperative pancreatic fistula is important, and this may be possible by the stapler method. STRAP-PD is a single center randomized controlled trial. We compare a method of transecting the pancreatic parenchyma in pancreaticoduodenectomy using a surgical stapler device with a conventional transecting method using energy devices (e.g., scalpel, ultrasonic coagulator and incision devices). Patients with soft pancreas who are scheduled to undergo pancreaticoduodenectomy are randomized to arm A (conventional method) or arm B (stapler method). We aim to examine the safety and usefulness of dissection by the automatic suture device, with attention to the rate of pancreatic fistula ISGPF grade B or C and to postoperative complications. This is a single-center randomized study, which began in September 2023 at Wakayama Medical University Hospital. Pancreatic parenchymal transection is typically performed either by direct incision using a scalpel or by employing energy devices such as ultrasonic coagulating cutting devices during pancreaticoduodenectomy. In a prospective pilot study, we conducted pancreatic parenchymal transection in 20 consecutive normal pancreatic cases during pancreaticoduodenectomy, observing postoperative pancreatic fistula grade B in one case (5%). Traditional methods involving scalpel incision or the use of ultrasonic coagulating cutting devices have been historically favored but perceived as technically challenging, and they have been reliant upon the surgeon's skill. Notably, relatively high incidences of postoperative pancreatic fistula among patients with soft pancreas have also been observed. Our proposed stapler method may therefore be a useful method responsible for reducing the development of pancreatic fistula. This method would be as part of minimally-invasive surgery for pancreaticoduodenectomy. It uses an endoscopic linear stapler to cut the pancreatic parenchyma, so it is likely to be more convenient than conventional methods and can be used universally. TRIALREGISTRATION: University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry,UMIN000052089. the Registration Date on 1st September 2023.

Bone Cutter versus Oscillating Saw for Ray Amputation: A Protocol for Randomised Controlled Feasibility Trial comparing Outcomes between Metatarsal Methods of Transection (MetaMet)

Bone Cutter versus Oscillating Saw for Ray Amputation: A Protocol for Randomised Controlled Feasibility Trial comparing Outcomes between Metatarsal Methods of Transection (MetaMet)

Carbon Absorption Potential in Sargassum sp. and Padina sp. in The Waters of East Melano Bay, Lemukutan Island, Bengkayang District, West Kalimantan Province

Increasing human activities have caused negative impacts on the environment, such as rising earth's surface temperature and extreme climate change. This impact is caused by increased greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane. Marine vegetation such as seaweed Sargassum sp. and Padina sp. It can also help absorb carbon and reduce carbon emissions through the process of photosynthesis. Seaweed that has the potential to reduce carbon emissions is Sargassum sp. and Padina sp. which is located in the waters of East Melano Bay, Bengkayang Regency. This study aims to determine the density of seaweed species Sargassum sp. and Padina sp. in East Melano Bay, as well as analyzing the carbon sequestration potential of seaweed. The method used is to use the descriptive method of exploration. The descriptive method of exploration aims to describe the state of a phenomenon. This study uses the quadrant transect method in sampling in the field, while the determination of carbon content uses the analysis of biomass, ash content, moisture content and volatile substances. The results of the analysis that have been carried out show the density value of Sargassum sp. has the highest value of 102.4 Ind/m2 and Padina sp. 76.05 Ind/m2. Carbon sequestration by seaweed Sargassum sp. is 105,637 tons of C/ha and Padina sp. amounting to 78,032 tons of C/ha. Based on the description in this study, it can be concluded that the highest carbon absorption is in Sargassum sp.

Assessment of mangrove structures and biomass on islands along the Java Sea: a case study on Bawean Islands and Karimunjawa Islands

Mangroves on the islands along the Java Sea play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, protecting coastlines, and sequestering carbon. However, there is a lack of information on mangrove structure and biomass in the area. This study aimed to assess the mangrove structures and biomass on Desa Daun, located on the Bawean Islands, and Kemujan Island, located on the Karimunjawa Islands, respectively. The study utilized a combination of line transect and quadrant plot methods with a size plot of 10x10 m. We established 7 line transects and 28 quadrant plots in the mangrove forest of Desa Daun and similarly set up 7 line transects and 21 quadrant plots on Kemujan Island. Within each quadrant, the mangrove species were identified, and their diameters at breast height (DBH) were recorded. To assess the relative significance of each species, the importance value index (IVI) was calculated, and allometric equations were applied to estimate biomass and carbon storage in the trees. PlanetScope imagery was also used to quantify the carbon stock of mangroves on those islands. In Desa Daun, 13 mangrove species were identified, while 12 species were recorded on Kemujan Island. The species Nypa fruticans and Excoecaria agallocha exhibited the highest IVI in Desa Daun and Kemujan Island, respectively. Notably, Rhizophora apiculata demonstrated the greatest biomass in both locations, with measurements of 43.08 Mg B/ha in Desa Daun and 102.22 Mg B/ha in Kemujan Island. Overall, mangrove stands on Desa Daun stored biomass of 113.60 Mg B/ha and carbon of 50.98 Mg C/ha, whereas mangrove stands on Kemujan Island stored biomass of 295.04 Mg B/ha and carbon of 131.95 Mg C/ha. Mangrove stands of the whole Bawean Islands sequestered 22,941 Mg C, while Karimunjawa Islands hold much higher C stocks, 79,451 Mg C. Despite being smaller in size, the Karimunjawa Islands have more extensive mangrove coverage compared to the Bawean Islands due to their geomorphological characteristics, which in turn influence their mangrove structures and carbon stocks. However, the loss of mangroves in the Karimunjawa Islands due to aquaculture expansions could increase carbon loss in the islands.

Insights into Population Status and Habitat Patches of Conservation Concern for the Endangered Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) in Nowshera District, Northwestern Pakistan.

The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) stands out among the four surviving species of Asian pangolins, being the sole species present in Pakistan and listed as endangered owing to trafficking and illicit commerce. In the present study, we explored the population status of the Indian pangolin and the existing suitable habitats in Nowshera district, Pakistan. We employed the line transect method to confirm the species presence and subsequent population estimation. In a survey effort of 156 km2, a total of 56 signs of Indian pangolin were recorded within the research area. Amongst the 56 signs, 46 were burrows (living burrows (53.57%) and feeding burrows (28.57%)). Digging was observed nine (16.07%) times, along with one direct sighting (1.7%). Our results revealed a population estimate of only 29 pangolins in the Nowshera district, with a population density of 0.013 individuals/km2. Later, MaxEnt was applied to the species' presence points, along with climatic and topographical variables. The MaxEnt model accuracy was good (AUC = 0.811). Of the total area studied, 210 km2 (12.01%) were highly suitable and 238 km2 (13.61%) were moderately suitable habitat for the Indian pangolin. To safeguard the fragile population and habitat of the Indian pangolin, we highly suggest strengthening watch and ward and law enforcement in the study area. By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses both the direct threats to Indian pangolins and the underlying factors driving their decline, we can effectively protect this endangered species and ensure the preservation of its essential habitats for robust conservation.

Seasonal variations in the structure of avian community in Zambezi riparian forest

Among the different biomes in southern Africa, tropical riparian forests appear to be especially rich in terms of biodiversity, but little is known about avian communities occupying these forests. In this paper, bird counts were conducted in May, July–August, and October–November in 2013 and 2014. The line transect method was used. A transect 16.6 km long was designed along the Zambezi River between S 17.4975 E 24.3478 and S 17.4874 E 24.447. In total, 146 bird species were recorded. The number of species detected each season varied from 95 to 100. The number of dominant species was consistently low, varying between 2 and 3 depending on the month. However, the cumulative dominance and the dominance index were much higher in the dry season (May–August) than in the wet season (October–November). Two species were dominant each month: Euplectes axillaris and Pycnonotus tricolor. Vidua macroura and Estrilda astrild were dominant only in October, while Streptopelia capicola was dominant only in May. The group of subdominants was much more diverse than dominants and included 13 species. The Shannon diversity index increased between July and November from 3.45 to 4.05 but Simpson's diversity index did not show any seasonal trend. Pielou's evenness index was higher in the wet season (0.82–0.88) than in the dry season (0.76–0.79). The proportions of the main feeding guilds were much the same throughout the year, except for November, when the proportion of insectivores markedly increased, while that of granivores decreased. Riparian forest corridors in urbanized environments may be viewed as main instruments for offsetting the negative effects of habitat loss and fragmentation. Dataset published through GBIF (DOI: 10.15470/0ssr1v)

Deep Learning for Multilabel Classification of Coral Reef Conditions in the Indo‐Pacific Using Underwater Photo Transect Method

ABSTRACTBecause coral reef ecosystems face threats from human activities and climate change, coral reef conservation programmes are implemented worldwide. Monitoring coral health provides references for guiding conservation activities. However, current labour‐intensive methods result in a backlog of unsorted images, highlighting the need for automated classification. Few studies have simultaneously utilized accurate labels along with updated algorithms and datasets. This study aimed to create a dataset representing common coral reef conditions and associated stressors in the Indo‐Pacific. Concurrently, it assessed existing classification algorithms and proposed a new multilabel method for automatically detecting coral reef conditions and extracting ecological information. A dataset containing over 20,000 high‐resolution coral images of different health conditions and stressors was constructed based on the field survey. Seven representative deep learning architectures were tested on this dataset, and their performance was quantitatively evaluated using the F1 metric and the match ratio. Based on this evaluation, a new method utilizing the ensemble learning approach was proposed. The proposed method accurately classified coral reef conditions as healthy, compromised, dead and rubble; it also identified corresponding stressors, including competition, disease, predation and physical issues. This method can help develop the coral image archive, guide conservation activities and provide references for decision‐making for reef managers and conservationists. The proposed ensemble learning approach outperforms others on the dataset, showing state‐of‐the‐art (SOTA) performance. Future research should improve its generalizability and accuracy to support global coral reef conservation efforts.