ESR 38:171-176 (2019)  -  DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00947

ABSTRACT: We provide the first assessment for a coral reef fish population of a potentially threatened endemic species from a remote and isolated oceanic island. Based on a 3-dimensional (3D) numerical field model of the reef habitat and underwater visual censuses conducted by 2 different teams in February and May 2016, we show that the 3.7 km² of the Clipperton Atoll reefs shallower than 30 m host >50000 ind. (average density of 0.02 ind. m^-2) of the endemic Clipperton angelfish Holacanthus limbaughi. Based on limited submersible observations to 150 m, the population likely extends below the 30 m depth stratum, resulting in an even larger population size and providing a potential depth refuge against expected warming ocean temperatures.

KEY WORDS: Coral reef fish · Pomacanthids · Endemicity · Underwater visual census · Video · Marine habitat mapping

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Cite this article as: Clua E, Bessudo S, Caselle JE, Chauvet C, Jost C, Friedlander AM (2019) Population assessment of the endemic angelfish Holacanthus limbaughi from Île de La Passion-Clipperton Atoll (Tropical Eastern Pacific). Endang Species Res 38:171-176. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00947 Export citation Share:    Facebook - - linkedIn