Data Synthesis

Mapping is an important means of storing, analyzing, and synthesizing data to be used for incorporating spawning sites into general conservation planning to identify specific priority sites and management strategies.

Satellite images of the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic from two different sources (left: Global Land Cover Facility; right: Google Earth). Composite image prepared by Mandy Karnauskas

Mapping the various spatial and biological data, collected through the process described in the preceding pages of this section, can help identify management priorities and strategies. In addition to the basic FSA features, there are other features that should be included in the mapping synthesis, to integrate FSAs into comprehensive conservation planning. Examples of these are: coral reef location and type, coral reef biodiversity indicators, bleaching-resistant coral communities, existing and proposed marine reserves, and other priorities for species conservation, human use patterns, and threats.

Mapping Techniques

The following mapping techniques are suggested to integrate FSAs into conservation planning:

Create maps using plastic transparencies over a base map of the area, or on a computer using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Satellite images can be helpful in defining boundaries for new MPAs, in relation to existing reefs and FSAs. See Global Land Cover Facility and Google Earth.
These data layers are then overlaid to determine where reef values, uses, and threats are concentrated and where potential conflicts exist.
Combining overlays of human activities and threats, especially proposed developments, can provide a picture of potential conflicts between FSA conservation and development objectives and activities, and of priority areas for policy or other complementary action.
Repeating this process to include multiple critical habitats of FSA species, such as their migration routes and nursery grounds, will help managers to identify other essential sites for protection. It will also help managers formulate the more comprehensive conservation strategies needed to conserve FSA species throughout all widely dispersed phases of their lives.

A Word of Caution

Maps showing the locations of spawning sites should be used cautiously. GPS conveniently records the exact location of sites for monitoring and scientific purposes, but this technology makes it equally easy for previously unknown sites to be located and fished. Even without the GPS coordinates of FSAs, spawning locations can be easily approximated from figures and maps. Therefore any figures produced for management purposes are best kept confidential.

Data Synthesis

Mapping Techniques

ArcGIS

A Word of Caution

Resources