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Essential Biodiversity variables (EBV) related to benthic habitats and high trophic levels such as fish communities must be measured at fine scale but monitored and assessed at spatial scales that are relevant for policy and management actions. Local scales, such as individual marine parks, are important for assessing anthropogenic impacts, and conservation-related and fisheries management actions, while reporting on the conservation status of biodiversity to formulate national and international policies requires much broader scales. Measurements must account for the fact that coastal habitats and fish communities are heterogeneously distributed locally and at larger scales. Assessments based on in situ monitoring generally suffer from poor spatial replication and limited geographical coverage, which is challenging for area-wide assessments. Requirements for appropriate monitoring comprise cost-efficient and standardized observation protocols and data formats, spatially-scalable and versatile data workflows, data that comply with the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) principles, while minimizing the environmental impact of measurements. This paper describes a standardized workflow based on remote underwater video that aims to assess fishes (at species and community levels) and habitat-related EBVs in coastal areas. This panoramic unbaited video technique was developed in 2007 to survey both fishes and benthic habitats in a cost-efficient manner, and with minimal effect on biodiversity. It can be deployed in areas where low underwater visibility is not a permanent or major limitation. The technique was consolidated and standardized and has been successfully used in varied settings over the last twelve years. We operationalized the EBV workflow by documenting the field protocol, survey design, image post-processing, EBV production and data curation. Applications of the workflow are illustrated here based on some 4500 observations (fishes and benthic habitats) in the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans, and Mediterranean Sea. The STAVIRO’s proven track-record of utility and cost-effectiveness indicates that it should be considered by other researchers for future applications. This paper was published as part of a Frontier Research Topic "Marine Biodiversity Observation Network". see doi: 10.3389/fmars.2021.832328 Refereed 14.a Fish abundance and distribution Hard coral cover and composition Sea grass cover and composition Macroalgal canopy cover and composition Marine turtles, birds, mammals abundance and composition Mature Multi-organisational Taxonomic diversity Species distribution Population abundance Population structure by size class Phenology Habitat structure Ecosystem extent and fragmentation Ecosystem composition and functional type Marine habitats Seabed cover and morphology Underwater video lander Method

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Two snake species (Laticauda laticaudata, Aipysurus laevis) were recorded during the survey and one species from the genus Hydrophis). Sea snakes were observed at 8.6% of stations on sandy bottoms. The green turtle (Chelonia mydas) was observed at five stations, all located in the live coral habitat in Chesterfield. This species is classified as endangered by IUCN.

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. The sicklefin lemon shark Negaprion acutidens was observed at the Chesterfield atoll in the Live Coral habitat; it had only been reported once in the same area (Clua and Imirizaldu 2017). This species is classified as vulnerable by IUCN.

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

The Chesterfield-Bellona atolls and reefs are a vast reef complex located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, established in 2014 in the New Caledonian Economic Exclusive Zone. In 2013, the New Caledonia government supported the first assessment of fish and benthic habitats conducted over the entire area. The assessment provided a primary knowledge base for establishing the importance of these atolls in terms of biodiversity and fished resources. This comprehensive survey relied on an unbaited underwater video technique that enabled to collect 185 successful camera drops distributed over all shallow habitats in the atolls. Video analysis revealed 18 fish species that had not been previously reported in this area. These included commercially important species: two species of snapper (Lutjanus monostigma and Lutjanus rivulatus) and an emperor (Lethrinus atkinsoni). Most of the new species observed displayed relatively low occurrences (< 5 individuals over 185 camera drops). They were observed in three habitats: i) live coral-dominated; ii) debris-dominated; and iii) sandy bottoms. Reference of the survey: CHESTERFIELD-BELLONA 2013: http://dx.doi.org/10.17600/18002030

International audience; The cryptophyte Teleaulax amphioxeia is a source of plastids for the ciliate Mesodinium rubrum and both organisms are members of the trophic chain of several species of Dinophysis. It is important to better understand the ecology of organisms at the first trophic levels before assessing the impact of principal factors of global change on Dinophysis spp.. Therefore, combined effects of temperature, irradiance and pH on growth rate, photosynthetic activity and pigment content of a temperate strain of T. amphioxeia were studied using a full factorial design (central composite design 23*) in 17 individually controlled bioreactors. The derived model predicted an optimal growth rate of T. amphioxeia at a light intensity of 400 µmol photons · m-2 · s-1, more acidic pH (7.6) than the current average and a temperature of 17.6 °C. An interaction between temperature and irradiance on growth was also found, while pH did not have any significant effect. Subsequently, to investigate potential impacts of prey quality and quantity on the physiology of the predator, M. rubrum was fed two separate prey: predator ratios with cultures of T. amphioxeia previously acclimated at two different light intensities (100 and 400 µmol photons · m-2 · s-1). M. rubrum growth appeared to be significantly dependant on prey quantity while effect of prey quality was not observed. This multi-parametric study indicated a high potential for a significant increase of T. amphioxeia in future climate conditions but to what extent this would lead to increased occurrences of Mesodinium spp. and Dinophysis spp. should be further investigated.

The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. Observation relies on remote unbaited underwater video, using the STAVIRO rotating technique (Pelletier et al. 2012).  This survey was conducted in 2015 in Entrecasteaux Reefs, both located within the Coral Sea Natural Park, and part of World Heritage site. 109 STAVIRO were validated in 9 days, covering the reefs and geomorphological units in the area. Images were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fishes based on a list of 565 species (Pelletier et al. 2016).  28 indicators were computed and represented on maps (Sextant server). Indicators were analyzed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in dashboards per management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management).  190 fish species (and one snake species), belonging to 32 families were observed. Surgeonfish and wrasses were observed on more than 95% of stations. Parrotfish, snappers, butterflyfish and groupers were observed on more than 77% of stations.  Coral health status is good with high living coral covers on outer slopes and lagoon patches, while branch coral was found in internal slopes. Butterflyfish diversity is high, but not their abundance.  Fish communities are exceptionally diversified in all habitats. Abundance is good, but medium in the Living Coral habitat. Groupers are frequent and abundant. Fish community status appears the best among all surveyed sites, except for parrotfish and butterlfyfish.  Sharks are very frequent, as well as jacks. Giant wrasse is regularly observed.  Resources are rather abundant (commercial, fished and spearfished species), but on sandy bottoms. Jacks and spangled emperor are frequent. Favorite targets of surgeonfish and coral trout are equally or less frequent than on other sites., Cette étude conduite dans le cadre du projet AMBIO concerne les communautés de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie. Elle s’appuie sur des données collectées par STAVIRO, une technique de vidéo rotative.  Cette campagne a été réalisée en 2015 dans les atolls d’Entrecasteaux, bien inscrit au patrimoine mondial et situé dans le périmètre du Parc naturel de la mer de Corail. Le plan d'échantillonnage couvre les différents sites de la zone et les structures récifales présentes. 109 stations STAVIRO ont été validées. L’analyse des images a permis de caractériser l’habitat entourant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 565 espèces (Pelletier et al. 2016).  28 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de cartes en annexe et disponibles sur Sextant. Ils ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche.  190 espèces de poissons et une espèce de serpent appartenant à 32 familles ont été observées. Poissons chirurgiens et labres sont observés sur plus de 95% des stations. Poissons-perroquets, lutjans, poissons-papillons et loches sont observés sur plus de 77% des stations.  L’habitat Corail vivant est dominant avec un recouvrement en corail vivant très élevé sur la pente externe, bon sur les patates isolées, et un recouvrement élevé en corail branchu sur les pentes internes abritées. La diversité des poissons-papillons est très élevée, leur abondance est moyenne.  La diversité du peuplement est exceptionnelle sur tous les types géomorphologiques et habitats. Son abondance est bonne sur tous les habitats, sauf l’habitat Corail vivant (moyenne). Les loches sont fréquentes et abondantes. A l’exception de l’abondance des perroquets et poissons-papillons, l’état de l’ichtyofaune est le meilleur de tous les sites visités.  Les requins sont très fréquents et des poissons-napoléons sont régulièrement observés.  Etat des ressources assez bon pour les espèces commerciales, consommables et pour les cibles de la chasse, sauf sur l’habitat Fond lagonaire (médiocre). Cibles de la ligne en général plus abondantes que sur les autres sites. Carangues et bec de cane fréquents. Dawa, saumonée petits points et picot kanak autant ou moins fréquents que sur les autres sites.

The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. The survey relies on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. - The study pertains to the reefs of Astrolabe, Pétrie and Walpole Island, located within the Coral Sea Natural Park. The survey conducted in 2014 covers the entire area, and the sampling design was stratified according to reef type. 95 stations were validated. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 565 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 28 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analyzed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). - 171 fish species (and one turtle species), belonging to 33 families were observed. Two families were observed on more than 95% of stations: surgeonfish and wrasses. Eight other families were observed on 50% to 95% of stations: parrotfish, groupers, triggerfish, snappers, butterflyfish, goatfish, emperors and angelfish. - Coral health status is good with high living coral covers (62% on average), mostly in Astrolabe, but branch coral was scarce. Sharks and giant wrasse were frequently observed, as well as jacks. - Fish communities are diversified and very abundant, particularly in the Living Coral habitat; and generally more abundant than on the rest of the sites, particularly at Astrolabe. All trophic groups were abundant on the area, except for planktivorous species. Piscivorous species were very abundant. - Most fisheries-related metrics indicate highly abundant resources, particularly at Astrolabe. - The health status of coral habitat and associated fish communities appears exceptional at Astrolabe, and generally good at Pétrie and Walpole., Le projet AMBIO a conduit des évaluations des peuplements de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens sur l’ensemble des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, en s’appuyant sur la technique de vidéo rotative STAVIRO. - Cette campagne a été réalisée en 2014 sur les iles et récifs éloignés d’Astrolabe, Pétrie et Walpole, situés dans le périmètre du Parc Naturel de la Mer de Corail. Le plan d'échantillonnage couvre toute la zone avec une stratification en fonction des structures récifales présentes. 95 stations STAVIRO ont été validées. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 565 espèces (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 28 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de carte disponible sur un serveur Sextant. Ces indicateurs ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. - 171 espèces de poissons (et 1 espèce de tortue) appartenant à 33 familles ont été observées. Deux familles sont vues sur plus de 95% de stations : poissons-chirurgiens et labres. Huit autres familles sont vues sur 50 à 95% des stations : poissons-perroquets, loches, balistes, lutjans, poissons-papillons, rougets-barbets, bossus/becs et poissons-ange. - L’état de santé du corail est bon, avec des recouvrements en corail vivant élevés (62% en moyenne sur l’habitat Corail vivant), surtout à Astrolabe, mais quasiment pas de corail branchu. Les requins et le poisson-napoléon sont fréquemment observés, ainsi que les carangues. - Les peuplements de poissons sont diversifiés et très abondants, notamment sur l’habitat Corail vivant. Ils sont très généralement plus abondants que sur le reste de la Grande Terre, particulièrement pour les récifs d’Astrolabe. Tous les groupes trophiques sont abondants sur la zone, à l’exception des espèces planctonophages, dont l’abondance est moyenne. Les espèces piscivores sont très abondantes. - La plupart des métriques liées aux ressources de la pêche montrent des ressources abondantes, particulièrement sur les récifs d’Astrolabe. - L’état de santé de l’habitat corallien et des peuplements associés apparaît exceptionnel à Astrolabe, et généralement bon à Pétrie et à Walpole.

Conducted within the AMBIO project, this work deals with coral reef fish communities and associated habitats, in the New Caledonian lagoons. It relies on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. The field work was realized in 2013 in and around the Merlet Marine Reserve, in the south of New-Caledonia, and located within the “Grand Lagon Sud” world heritage area. The sampling design covers the entire area, and was stratified according to reef type (outer slope, reef flat, reef shallow terrace, lagoon, and fringing reef). 162 stations were validated within 6 days. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 429 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). 28 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analyzed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). 165 fish species (and one turtle species), belonging to 20 families were observed. Two families were observed on more than 80% of stations: surgeonfish and parrotfish. Four other families were observed on 50% to 80% of stations: butterflyfish, wrasses, groupers and goatfish. Living coral habitat display a good ecological status, in particular on external slopes (on average over 35% on this habitat). A large diversity (26 species) and abundance of butterflyfish was observed. 2 shark species, 1 turtle species and 3 ray species were encountered, as well as giant wrasse. Fish communities display a good ecological status, in particular on external slopes in the Living Coral habitat, consistently with an ancient and strong protection. Emblematic species were regularly observed. Most fisheries-related metrics indicate relatively abundant resources, with higher occurrences abundances, and a greater proportion of large individuals. These results indicate lower anthropogenic pressures, especially fishing pressure,than at other coastal sites., Cette étude conduite dans le cadre du projet AMBIO concerne les communautés de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie. Elle s’appuie sur des données collectées par STAVIRO, une technique de vidéo rotative. Cette campagne a été réalisée en 2013 dans et autour de la réserve Yves Merlet, située dans le Grand Lagon Sud, bien inscrit au patrimoine mondial. Le plan d'échantillonnage couvre toute la zone avec une stratification en fonction des structures récifales (pente externe, fond lagonaire, récif frangeant, platier, plateau récifal). En 6 jours sur zone, 162 stations STAVIRO ont été validées. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 429 espèces (cf. AMBIO/A/1). 28 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de carte disponible sur un serveur Sextant. Ces indicateurs ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. 165 espèces de poissons (et 1 espèce de tortue) appartenant à 20 familles ont été observées. Deux familles sont vues sur plus de 80% de stations : poissons chirurgiens et poissons perroquets. Quatre autres familles sont vues sur 50 à 80% des stations : poissons-papillons, labres, loches et rougets-barbets. L’état de santé du corail est bon, avec des recouvrements en corail vivant élevés (plus de 35% en moyenne sur l’habitat Corail vivant). Les poissons-papillons sont diversifiés (26 espèces) et abondants sur la zone. 2 espèces de requins, 1 espèce de tortue et trois espèces de raies sont observées, ainsi que le poisson napoléon. L’état de l’ichtyofaune est satisfaisant, notamment sur la pente externe, et cohérent avec le statut de protection intégrale ancien. Les espèces emblématiques sont régulièrement observées. Les résultats indiquent des pressions anthropiques, et notamment une pression de pêche, clairement plus faibles que sur d’autres sites côtiers, avec des espèces-cibles plus fréquentes, plus abondantes et plus de grands individus.

The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. The survey relies on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. The present study deals with the Corne Sud area, in the south of New-Caledonia, and located within the “Grand Lagon Sud” World Heritage Property. The survey design covers the entire area. 155 stations were validated within 9 days. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 429 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). 27 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analyzed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). 170 fish species (and one turtle species), belonging to 23 families were observed. Surgeonfish and parrotfish were observed on 95% of the stations. Wrasses, butterflyfish, goatfish and groupers were observed on 50% to 80% of the stations. Live coral habitat was dominant (almost 60% of stations). Coral cover status was very good on the external slope, good on fringing reefs. Branch coral cover was high in sheltered locations, islet fringing reefs and coral patches. Butterflyfish diversity was very high (26 species). Fish communities are among the most diversified in New Caledonia, particularly on barrier reef and lagoon coral patches. Fish abundance is heterogenous, high on the barrier reef and coral patches, and medium on islet fringing reefs. Turtles, sharks, rays and giant wrasse are regularly observed on their favorite habitats. Ressource status is good for fished species and species targeted by spearfishing and line. In particular, blue spine unicorn, coral trout and “picot kanak” (Acanthurus blochii, dussumieri and nigricauda) are both more frequent and more abundant than in the other sites studied., Le projet AMBIO a conduit des évaluations des peuplements de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens sur l’ensemble des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, en s’appuyant sur la technique de vidéo rotative STAVIRO. Cette campagne a été réalisée en 2013 dans la Corne Sud, située dans le Grand Lagon Sud, bien inscrit au Patrimoine Mondial. Le plan d'échantillonnage couvre la totalité de cette vaste zone. En 9 jours sur zone, 155 stations STAVIRO ont été validées. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les peuplements de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 527 espèces (cf. AMBIO/A/1). 27 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de cartes disponibles sur un serveur Sextant. Ces indicateurs ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. 170 espèces de poissons (et 1 espèce de tortue) appartenant à 23 familles ont été observées. Poissons chirurgiens et poissons perroquets sont observés sur plus de 95% des stations. Labres, poissons-papillons, loches et rougets-barbets sont observés sur 50 à 80% des stations. L’habitat corallien est largement dominant avec presque 60% des stations et un recouvrement en corail vivant très bon sur la pente externe, presque bon sur les frangeants d’îlot et un recouvrement élevé en corail branchu dans les zones lagonaires abritées, frangeantes et patates isolées. La diversité des poissons-papillons est très élevée (26 espèces observées). Le peuplement est un des plus diversifiés autour de la Grande Terre surtout sur le récif barrière et les patates lagonaires isolées. Son abondance est moyenne et hétérogène, élevée sur la barrière et les patates isolées, moyenne sur les frangeants d’îlot. Tortues, requins, raies et poissons-napoléons sont régulièrement observés sur leurs habitats préférés. L’état des ressources est satisfaisant pour les espèces commerciales, consommables et pour les cibles de la chasse, et celles de la ligne. En particulier, le dawa, la saumonée petits points et le picot kanak sont plus fréquents et plus abondants que sur les autres sites.

• This guide depicts the STAVIRO and MICADO rotating video techniques. It is intended for potential users, whether, environmental managing bodies, academics and other scientists. • The STAVIRO is a remote underwater unbaited video system for monitoring and studying shallow biodiversity, mostly in coastal areas (between 0 and 50 m). It enables observing habitat and vagile macrofauna within a 5m (and often 10 m) distance around the system. Because it rotates, the STAVIRO enables a panoramic view without distorting image due to wide angle. Many stations can be achieved quickly (ca. 20-25 stations per day with two systems) without the need for divers, and field work does not require a scientific background. It allows to survey extended areas and to replicate observations; it is thus adapted to spatial monitoring of potentially vast areas. Since 2007, more than 3000 STAVIRO stations have been collected in New Caledonia, several hundreds in the Mediterranean, and more recently in the Indian Ocean. • The MICADO is an automatic system that can record the same images as the STAVIRO while remaining in place for several days. It is preferably posed by divers. Recording times are programmed; they depend on study objectives. MICADO is adapted to high frequency temporal monitoring, and it enables observing macrofauna activity and behavior. Since 2008, more than 1200 MICADO sequences have been recorded in New Caledonia, and ca. a hundred in the Mediterranean. • Image analysis is achieved after field work; it requires being trained to fish species identification. Analyses can easily be checked and validated by an expert. • Observations allow characterizing and quantifying fish communities (and other animals such as turtles) and habitat (biotic and abiotic cover) around the station. • Data are used to compute indicators that are statistically analysed, e.g. using the PAMPA computing tool, which is freely available, with a user guide. • Several utilities were developed to facilitate the implementation of the methodology (text files for data input on the field, species lists, Excel-based data input sheet, R scripts for formatting data, etc.) • Indicators can be mapped, e.g. using the Ifremer Sextant server (http://sextant.ifremer.fr). Data will soon be stored in an accessible and interoperable database (Quadrige, RECIFS Database)., • Ce guide présente les techniques de vidéo rotative STAVIRO et MICADO. Il s’adresse aux utilisateurs potentiels de ces systèmes, qu’ils soient gestionnaires, bureaux d’étude ou chercheurs. L’objectif est de rendre l’utilisateur aussi autonome que possible dans la mise en œuvre de la méthodologie. • Le STAVIRO est un système de vidéo rotatif, panoramique, autonome, non appâté, destiné à réaliser des suivis et des études sur la biodiversité peu profonde (entre 0 et 50 mètres). Il permet d’observer l’habitat et la macrofaune vagile dans un rayon de 5 mètres et souvent d’une dizaine de mètres autour du système. Parce qu’il est rotatif, le STAVIRO permet d’obtenir une vision panoramique sans déformation de l’image par un grand angle. Le mode opératoire sur le terrain permet de réaliser rapidement de nombreuses stations (environ 20-25 stations par jour avec deux systèmes), sans plongeur, et par des personnes ne possédant pas de formation scientifique. Cette technique permet de couvrir des zones étendues et d’obtenir des données répliquées. Elle est adaptée au suivi spatial de zones potentiellement vastes. Depuis 2007, plus de 3000 stations STAVIRO ont été collectées en Nouvelle-Calédonie, et plusieurs centaines en Méditerranée, et plus récemment dans l’Océan Indien. • Le MICADO est un système automatisé, pouvant capter les mêmes images que le STAVIRO, en restant en place pendant plusieurs jours. Il est posé en plongée de préférence et les heures des séquences sont programmables. Depuis 2008, plus de 1200 séquences ont été collectées en Nouvelle-Calédonie et une centaine en Méditerranée. Ce système est adapté au suivi temporel d’une station et permet d’observer l’activité et les comportements de la macrofaune. • L’analyse des images est réalisée indépendamment des campagnes, et nécessite une formation à l’identification des espèces de poisson. Les analyses peuvent facilement être vérifiées et validées par des experts. • Les observations permettent de caractériser et quantifier les peuplements de poissons et l’habitat (recouvrements abiotiques et biotiques) autour de la station. • Les données sont utilisées pour calculer des indicateurs qui peuvent être analysés statistiquement, par ex. avec l’outil de calcul PAMPA, librement disponible ainsi que le guide qui l’accompagne. • Plusieurs outils ont été mis au point et sont disponibles pour faciliter la mise en œuvre de la technique : fichiers-types (feuille de terrain, masque de saisie sous Excel, scripts de mise au format PAMPA sous R, listes d’espèces, etc.). • Les indicateurs sont représentés sur des cartes, accessibles par ex. sur le serveur Sextant de l’Ifremer (http://sextant.ifremer.fr). La bancarisation des données sous Quadrige et plus particulièrement sur la Base de données RECIFS est en cours.

This study is conducted within the AMBIO project, focused on the biodiversity of New Caledonian lagoons. It aims at assessing the ecological impact of touristic cruises in the Baie du Santal at Lifou Island. A survey conducted in 2014 using the remote unbaited underwater video STAVIRO rotating technique, enabled to validate 133 stations, which were then analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 565 fish species. 15 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). They were analysed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). 122 fish species (plus turtle and sea snake), belonging to 23 families were observed. Five families were observed at more than 60% of stations: triggerfish (90% of stations), butterflyfish, surgeonfish, goatfish and parrotfish. The fish assemblage is diversified, particularly in the Jinek area. In the mooring area, habitat is destroyed within a 200m radius, and degraded until a 400m distance. Degradation is higher than in 2009. Fish area directly impacted by habitat destruction. Indirect degradation is also observed. In the swimming area, coral reefs are moderately impacted, whereas fish assemblage is diversified, with species indicating a good ecological status. Overall, the status of fish resources is poor, and even bad for commercial species. It is recommended to : a) ensure that future developments of cruise activity will not increase impacts: b) definitively ban mooring in the second location where biodiversity is still preserved; c) limit the number of swimmers and supervise practices in Jinek; and d) to monitor and assess fishing activities., Cette étude est conduite dans le cadre du projet AMBIO sur la biodiversité des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie. Elle vise à évaluer dans la Baie du Santal à Lifou, Iles Loyautés, l’impact écologique du mouillage et de la fréquentation du littoral par les croisiéristes des paquebots, une activité en plein développement en Nouvelle-Calédonie. Une campagne de vidéo rotative STAVIRO a été réalisée en 2014 qui a permis de valider 133 stations à des profondeurs de 2 à 37m. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 565 espèces. 15 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de carte disponible sur un serveur Sextant. Ils ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. 122 espèces de poissons (plus tortue et serpent), appartenant à 23 familles ont été observées. Cinq familles sont vues sur plus de 60% des stations : balistes (90% des stations), poissons-papillons, chirurgiens, rougets-barbets et perroquets. Le peuplement apparaît diversifié dans l’ensemble, et surtout dans la zone de Jinek située à l’ouest. Dans la zone d’ancrage, l’habitat est détruit dans un rayon de 200m autour du point de mouillage ; et dégradé jusqu’à une distance de 400m. La dégradation est plus importante qu’en 2009. Les poissons sont directement impactés par la destruction de l’habitat corallien. Des signes de dégradation indirecte de l’habitat sont également visibles. Dans la zone de baignade des croisiéristes, le corail est modérément impacté, mais encore préservé, tandis que le peuplement de poissons apparait diversifié, avec des espèces indicatrices d’un bon état écologique. Sur l’ensemble de la zone d’étude, l’état des ressources de la pêche est médiocre, voire mauvais pour les espèces commerciales. Il est recommandé : a) de s’assurer que l’évolution future de la fréquentation par les paquebots n’augmentera pas les impacts ;b) de ne plus utiliser la zone de mouillage secondaire, encore préservée, c) de limiter le nombre et encadrer les pratiques des baigneurs à Jinek ; et d) de suivre et évaluer l’activité de pêche.

Maps of the indicators analyzed in video-based assessment of status and trends in fish assemblages and habitats, Voh-Koné-Pouembout, Cartes des indicateurs analysés dans Evaluation par vidéo de l’état de santé des habitats et peuplements de poissons de la zone de Voh-Koné-Pouembout, Campagnes de stations vidéo rotatives STAVIRO 2007-2013.

This survey was conducted in september 2013 within the AMBIO project in new Caledonia. The survey aims at assessing fish communities and associated habitats in the South Lagoon, part of the World Heritage.161 underwater unbaited rotating video observations, using the STAVIRO (158 stations) and the MICADO (3 stations) technique were validated, enabling to cover the entire zone (1290 km2)., Cette campagne a été réalisée en septembre 2013 dans le cadre du projet AMBIO en Nouvelle-Calédonie. L’objectif est d’évaluer l’état de santé des communautés de poissons et habitats associés de la zone du Grand Lagon Sud, une zone inscrite au Patrimoine Mondial de l’Humanité. A cet effet, 158 stations STAVIRO (STAtion VIdéo ROtatives) et 3 stations MICADO ont été validées et ont permis de couvrir l’ensemble de cette vaste zone de 1290 km2.

The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. The survey relies on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. - The study pertains to the reefs of Astrolabe, Pétrie and Walpole Island, located within the Coral Sea Natural Park. The survey conducted in 2014 covers the entire area, and the sampling design was stratified according to reef type. 95 stations were validated. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 565 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 28 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analyzed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). - 171 fish species (and one turtle species), belonging to 33 families were observed. Two families were observed on more than 95% of stations: surgeonfish and wrasses. Eight other families were observed on 50% to 95% of stations: parrotfish, groupers, triggerfish, snappers, butterflyfish, goatfish, emperors and angelfish. - Coral health status is good with high living coral covers (62% on average), mostly in Astrolabe, but branch coral was scarce. Sharks and giant wrasse were frequently observed, as well as jacks. - Fish communities are diversified and very abundant, particularly in the Living Coral habitat; and generally more abundant than on the rest of the sites, particularly at Astrolabe. All trophic groups were abundant on the area, except for planktivorous species. Piscivorous species were very abundant. - Most fisheries-related metrics indicate highly abundant resources, particularly at Astrolabe. - The health status of coral habitat and associated fish communities appears exceptional at Astrolabe, and generally good at Pétrie and Walpole., Le projet AMBIO a conduit des évaluations des peuplements de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens sur l’ensemble des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, en s’appuyant sur la technique de vidéo rotative STAVIRO. - Cette campagne a été réalisée en 2014 sur les iles et récifs éloignés d’Astrolabe, Pétrie et Walpole, situés dans le périmètre du Parc Naturel de la Mer de Corail. Le plan d'échantillonnage couvre toute la zone avec une stratification en fonction des structures récifales présentes. 95 stations STAVIRO ont été validées. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 565 espèces (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 28 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de carte disponible sur un serveur Sextant. Ces indicateurs ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. - 171 espèces de poissons (et 1 espèce de tortue) appartenant à 33 familles ont été observées. Deux familles sont vues sur plus de 95% de stations : poissons-chirurgiens et labres. Huit autres familles sont vues sur 50 à 95% des stations : poissons-perroquets, loches, balistes, lutjans, poissons-papillons, rougets-barbets, bossus/becs et poissons-ange. - L’état de santé du corail est bon, avec des recouvrements en corail vivant élevés (62% en moyenne sur l’habitat Corail vivant), surtout à Astrolabe, mais quasiment pas de corail branchu. Les requins et le poisson-napoléon sont fréquemment observés, ainsi que les carangues. - Les peuplements de poissons sont diversifiés et très abondants, notamment sur l’habitat Corail vivant. Ils sont très généralement plus abondants que sur le reste de la Grande Terre, particulièrement pour les récifs d’Astrolabe. Tous les groupes trophiques sont abondants sur la zone, à l’exception des espèces planctonophages, dont l’abondance est moyenne. Les espèces piscivores sont très abondantes. - La plupart des métriques liées aux ressources de la pêche montrent des ressources abondantes, particulièrement sur les récifs d’Astrolabe. - L’état de santé de l’habitat corallien et des peuplements associés apparaît exceptionnel à Astrolabe, et généralement bon à Pétrie et à Walpole.

The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. The surveys rely on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. Chesterfield and Bellona remote reefs and atolls are located in the Coral Sea Marine Park, northwest of New Caledonia. -This 2013 survey is the first scientific survey covering the entire area, with a sampling design stratified according to reef type. 203 stations were validated within 10 days. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 565 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 34 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analysed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). - 220 fish species (and one turtle species and two sea snake species), belonging to 36 families were observed. Three families were observed on more than 80% of stations: surgeonfish, wrasses and parrotfish. Three other families were observed on 50% to 80% of stations: butterflyfish, goatfish and serranids. Lethrinids and siganids are relatively less abundant in the area. 25 species were recorded for the first time in the area. - The coral displays an exceptionally good health with high living coral covers, a large diversity (23 species) and relatively high abundance of butterflyfish. Sharks were observed very frequently (43% of stations), as well as jacks (18% of stations). - Fish communities are diversified, particularly in the Living Coral habitat; abundances are generally higher in Chesterfield than in Bellona. Although all trophic groups are abundant, carnivores dominate the assemblage. - Fished species are rather abundant, more in Chesterfield than, Le projet AMBIO a conduit des évaluations des peuplements de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens sur l’ensemble des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, en s’appuyant sur la technique de vidéo rotative STAVIRO. La zone de Chesterfield et Bellona, des récifs éloignés de la Grande Terre est située dans le Parc Marin de la Mer de Corail. - Cette campagne 2013 est la première campagne scientifique couvrant l’intégralité de la zone, avec un plan d'échantillonnage stratifié en fonction des structures récifales. En 10 jours sur zone, 203 stations STAVIRO ont été validées (profondeurs de 1 à 36 m). Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 565 espèces (cf. AMBIO/A/1). - 34 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de carte disponible sur un serveur Sextant. Ces indicateurs ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. - 220 espèces de poissons (et 1 espèce de tortue et 2 espèces de serpent), appartenant à 36 familles ont été observées. Trois familles sont vues sur plus de 80% des stations : les chirurgiens, les labres et les perroquets. Trois autres familles sont vues sur 50 à 80% des stations : poissons-papillons, barbillons et Serranidae. Les Lethrinidae et Siganidae sont relativement peu abondants sur la zone. 25 espèces ont été observées pour la première fois dans la zone. - L’état de santé du corail est exceptionnel, avec des recouvrements en corail vivant élevés, une forte diversité (23 espèces) et une abondance relativement élevée des poissons-papillons. Les requins sont observés très fréquemment (43% des stations), ainsi que les carangues (18% des stations). - Les peuplements de poissons sont diversifiés notamment sur l’habitat Corail vivant ; et généralement plus abondants à Chesterfield qu’à Bellona. Bien que tous les groupes trophiques soient abondants sur la zone, notamment sur l’habitat le plus riche, les carnivores dominent l’assemblage. - Les espèces exploitées sont relativement abondantes, à Chesterfield plus qu’à Bellona sur habitat Corail vivant, et l’inverse sur habitat Fond lagonaire.

Maps of the indicators analyzed in video-based assessment of status and trends in fish assemblages and habitats, Voh-Koné-Pouembout, Cartes des indicateurs analysés dans Evaluation par vidéo de l’état de santé des habitats et peuplements de poissons de la zone de Voh-Koné-Pouembout, Campagnes de stations vidéo rotatives STAVIRO 2007-2013.

This study is conducted within the AMBIO project, focused on the biodiversity of New Caledonian lagoons. It aims at assessing the ecological impact of touristic cruises in the Baie du Santal at Lifou Island. A survey conducted in 2014 using the remote unbaited underwater video STAVIRO rotating technique, enabled to validate 133 stations, which were then analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 565 fish species. 15 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). They were analysed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). 122 fish species (plus turtle and sea snake), belonging to 23 families were observed. Five families were observed at more than 60% of stations: triggerfish (90% of stations), butterflyfish, surgeonfish, goatfish and parrotfish. The fish assemblage is diversified, particularly in the Jinek area. In the mooring area, habitat is destroyed within a 200m radius, and degraded until a 400m distance. Degradation is higher than in 2009. Fish area directly impacted by habitat destruction. Indirect degradation is also observed. In the swimming area, coral reefs are moderately impacted, whereas fish assemblage is diversified, with species indicating a good ecological status. Overall, the status of fish resources is poor, and even bad for commercial species. It is recommended to : a) ensure that future developments of cruise activity will not increase impacts: b) definitively ban mooring in the second location where biodiversity is still preserved; c) limit the number of swimmers and supervise practices in Jinek; and d) to monitor and assess fishing activities., Cette étude est conduite dans le cadre du projet AMBIO sur la biodiversité des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie. Elle vise à évaluer dans la Baie du Santal à Lifou, Iles Loyautés, l’impact écologique du mouillage et de la fréquentation du littoral par les croisiéristes des paquebots, une activité en plein développement en Nouvelle-Calédonie. Une campagne de vidéo rotative STAVIRO a été réalisée en 2014 qui a permis de valider 133 stations à des profondeurs de 2 à 37m. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les communautés de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 565 espèces. 15 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de carte disponible sur un serveur Sextant. Ils ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. 122 espèces de poissons (plus tortue et serpent), appartenant à 23 familles ont été observées. Cinq familles sont vues sur plus de 60% des stations : balistes (90% des stations), poissons-papillons, chirurgiens, rougets-barbets et perroquets. Le peuplement apparaît diversifié dans l’ensemble, et surtout dans la zone de Jinek située à l’ouest. Dans la zone d’ancrage, l’habitat est détruit dans un rayon de 200m autour du point de mouillage ; et dégradé jusqu’à une distance de 400m. La dégradation est plus importante qu’en 2009. Les poissons sont directement impactés par la destruction de l’habitat corallien. Des signes de dégradation indirecte de l’habitat sont également visibles. Dans la zone de baignade des croisiéristes, le corail est modérément impacté, mais encore préservé, tandis que le peuplement de poissons apparait diversifié, avec des espèces indicatrices d’un bon état écologique. Sur l’ensemble de la zone d’étude, l’état des ressources de la pêche est médiocre, voire mauvais pour les espèces commerciales. Il est recommandé : a) de s’assurer que l’évolution future de la fréquentation par les paquebots n’augmentera pas les impacts ;b) de ne plus utiliser la zone de mouillage secondaire, encore préservée, c) de limiter le nombre et encadrer les pratiques des baigneurs à Jinek ; et d) de suivre et évaluer l’activité de pêche.

The AMBIO project conducted a comprehensive video-based baseline assessment of coral reef fish communities and associated habitats in the New Caledonian lagoons. The survey relies on remote unbaited underwater video observations, using the STAVIRO rotating technique. The present study deals with the Corne Sud area, in the south of New-Caledonia, and located within the “Grand Lagon Sud” World Heritage Property. The survey design covers the entire area. 155 stations were validated within 9 days. They were analyzed to characterize the habitat surrounding each station, and fish communities, based on a list of 429 fish species (cf. AMBIO/A/1). 27 indicators were computed and mapped (maps available on a Sextant server). Indicators were analyzed using the PAMPA computing tool. Outcomes were organized in a dashboard for each management objective (biodiversity conservation and fisheries management). 170 fish species (and one turtle species), belonging to 23 families were observed. Surgeonfish and parrotfish were observed on 95% of the stations. Wrasses, butterflyfish, goatfish and groupers were observed on 50% to 80% of the stations. Live coral habitat was dominant (almost 60% of stations). Coral cover status was very good on the external slope, good on fringing reefs. Branch coral cover was high in sheltered locations, islet fringing reefs and coral patches. Butterflyfish diversity was very high (26 species). Fish communities are among the most diversified in New Caledonia, particularly on barrier reef and lagoon coral patches. Fish abundance is heterogenous, high on the barrier reef and coral patches, and medium on islet fringing reefs. Turtles, sharks, rays and giant wrasse are regularly observed on their favorite habitats. Ressource status is good for fished species and species targeted by spearfishing and line. In particular, blue spine unicorn, coral trout and “picot kanak” (Acanthurus blochii, dussumieri and nigricauda) are both more frequent and more abundant than in the other sites studied., Le projet AMBIO a conduit des évaluations des peuplements de poissons et habitats associés aux récifs coralliens sur l’ensemble des lagons de Nouvelle-Calédonie, en s’appuyant sur la technique de vidéo rotative STAVIRO. Cette campagne a été réalisée en 2013 dans la Corne Sud, située dans le Grand Lagon Sud, bien inscrit au Patrimoine Mondial. Le plan d'échantillonnage couvre la totalité de cette vaste zone. En 9 jours sur zone, 155 stations STAVIRO ont été validées. Leur analyse a permis de caractériser l’habitat environnant chaque station, ainsi que les peuplements de poissons sur la base d’une liste de 527 espèces (cf. AMBIO/A/1). 27 indicateurs ont été calculés et représentés sous forme de cartes disponibles sur un serveur Sextant. Ces indicateurs ont été analysés grâce à l’outil de calcul PAMPA. Les résultats sont synthétisés sous forme de tableau de bord par objectif de gestion relatif à la conservation de la biodiversité et la gestion des ressources de la pêche. 170 espèces de poissons (et 1 espèce de tortue) appartenant à 23 familles ont été observées. Poissons chirurgiens et poissons perroquets sont observés sur plus de 95% des stations. Labres, poissons-papillons, loches et rougets-barbets sont observés sur 50 à 80% des stations. L’habitat corallien est largement dominant avec presque 60% des stations et un recouvrement en corail vivant très bon sur la pente externe, presque bon sur les frangeants d’îlot et un recouvrement élevé en corail branchu dans les zones lagonaires abritées, frangeantes et patates isolées. La diversité des poissons-papillons est très élevée (26 espèces observées). Le peuplement est un des plus diversifiés autour de la Grande Terre surtout sur le récif barrière et les patates lagonaires isolées. Son abondance est moyenne et hétérogène, élevée sur la barrière et les patates isolées, moyenne sur les frangeants d’îlot. Tortues, requins, raies et poissons-napoléons sont régulièrement observés sur leurs habitats préférés. L’état des ressources est satisfaisant pour les espèces commerciales, consommables et pour les cibles de la chasse, et celles de la ligne. En particulier, le dawa, la saumonée petits points et le picot kanak sont plus fréquents et plus abondants que sur les autres sites.