The Fiji Islands
Vuki, V.C.; Zann, L.P.; Naqasima, M.R.; Vuki, M. (2000). The Fiji Islands, in: Sheppard, C.R.C. (Ed.) Seas at the millennium: an environmental evaluation: 2. Regional chapters: The Indian Ocean to The Pacific. pp. 751-764
In: Sheppard, C.R.C. (Ed.) (2000). Seas at the millennium: an environmental evaluation: 2. Regional chapters: The Indian Ocean to The Pacific. Pergamon: Amsterdam. ISBN 0-08-043207-7. XXI, 920 pp., meer
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Documenttype: Revisie
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| Auteurs | | Top |
- Vuki, V.C.
- Zann, L.P.
- Naqasima, M.R.
- Vuki, M.
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| Abstract |
Fiji is one of the largest and wealthiest island groups in the South Western Pacific Island Region and has a very large Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 1.26 million km2. Its many reefs support a substantial subsistence population and a broad-based economy. Rapid population growth has resulted in locally severe overfishing of reefs and lagoons in high population centres in the wban areas. Growth and stock overfishing have occurred with many inshore species, particularly mullet, sea cucumbers and giant clams. There is also significant loss in major coastal habitats because of unplanned development in wban areas. Turtles, giant Clams, seabirds, sea cucumbers, giant triton shell and some species of fish are endangered and the world's largest parrotfish, Bolbometapon muricatum (humphead parrotfish) is in danger of being fished to extinction in Fijian waters. Water quality is pristine in rural areas but is poor in urban areas because of sewage pollution and poor land-use practices which cause sedimentation and eutrophication. Outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish have caused moderate damage to some reefs, and it is evident that Fiji's coral reefs are under increasing pressure from human activities and will require protection and effective management. There is, however, a recent interest in marine protected areas because customary fishing right owners are becoming aware of the value of marine eco-tourism, habitat protection and fisheries conservation and management. |
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