Status of crown-of-thorns starfish in Laamu Atoll, Republic of Maldives

Qualitative and quantitative surveys of crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) abundance were conducted in Laamu Atoll, Republic of Maldives. Abundance was low, with starfish most abundant in shallow-water Acropora formosa patch reefs. Juvenile starfish were observed on reef crests on the outside of the atoll rim while adults were found on patch reefs. Starfish were also observed on one faro reef flat. Based upon the available data (including unpublished government reports), it appears that there are no crown-of-thorns outbreaks occurring in the Maldives. Given the dispersed nature of this island country and thus the difficulty in monitoring all coral reefs, outbreaks could occur in more remote areas not generally visited by those able to recognize the importance of recording these occurrences.