Overseas coral reefs and seagrasses - Developing WFD bioassessment tools

In the overseas territories (Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte and Réunion Island), a number of bioassessment tools have been developped to inform on the ecological status of rivers. The idea was to develop similar methods for coral reefs and beds of phanerogams (seagrass), as major issues are involved in the conservation and protection of these emblematic ecosystems. But in terms of the specific water framework directive (WFD) needs, can coral reefs and seagrasses serve as indicators suited to assessing the ecological status of water bodies? The development of such tools represents a scientific challenge given the paucity of available knowledge on the ecology and functioning of these tropical ecosystems, and the relative lack of experience in their assessment.

The Seagrass and reef benthos national work group was set up in 2011 to collectively provide science advice on the topic. This document sums up the discussions and work of the group from 2011 to 2014.