Distribution and mortality of the Mediterranean Stony Coral (Cladocora caespitosa Linnaeus, 1767) around Gokceada Island (Northern Aegean Sea)

Abstract

Cladocora caespitosa colonies around Gokceada Island had discrete and scattered distribution with regional density of 0.12 colonies.m(-2) and a mean cover of 0.27%. The size frequency distribution of the colonies showed a prevalence of small sizes, possibly related to frequent storm events. About 15% of the colonies were affected by mortality, of which 67% were recently dead, probably due to positive thermal anomalies. This is the first report of mortality of this species from the Aegean Sea and from the Turkish coasts. Considering the vulnerability of the species to climate change and harvesting in the island, we suggest that C. caespitosa should be included in the list of species completely prohibited to harvest according to the statements 2012/66 and 2012/65 of Turkish law.