Puerto Rico NCRMP Data

Data provided in this collection were gathered around Puerto Rico as part of NCCOS-led missions in collaboration with partners at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, University of Puerto Rico Department of Marine Sciences, HJR Reefscaping, and University of the Virgin Islands.

In 2014 the Belt Transect method was used to conduct fish surveys in Puerto Rico as part of the ongoing National Coral Reef Monitoring Program (NCRMP). The Belt Transect method collects and reports information on fish species composition, density, size, abundance and derived metrics (e.g., species richness, diversity). Surveys were concurrent with and along the same transect as the Line Point-Intercept (LPI) benthic survey. Starting in 2016 fish data were collected using the stationary point count method. This method collects and reports information on fish species composition, density, size structure, abundance and derived metrics (e.g., species richness, diversity).

The NCRMP provides a steady flow of scientific information required to track the health of coral reefs. This monitoring plan consists of a broad, overarching framework within which scientific research is conducted to achieve coral reef conservation. The four primary goals of NCRMP are: (1) monitor the status and trends of coral reef ecosystems (including human communities); (2) monitor and assess climate-related threats to coral reefs; (3) provide a consistent flow of data and information to communities in coral reef jurisdictions; and (4) foster partnerships to expand the scope and scale of coral reef monitoring

Use liability: NOAA and NCEI cannot provide any warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of furnished data. Users assume responsibility to determine the usability of these data. The user is responsible for the results of any application of this data for other than its intended purpose.