Abundance and biodiversity of coral reef fish of Lavan and Shidvar islands (Persian Gulf)

Abstract

Introduction: Coral fishes are the most important indices to determine diversity in shallow
ecosystems.
Materials & Methods: The present study aimed to the biodiversity of coral fishes and
distribution of this group around the Lavan and Shidvar islands in the Persian Gulf and Oman
Sea using biodiversity indices and finally, the maps were plotted using the GIS software
version 10. Data collection was carried out in August and December 2018 using visual census
method.
Results: A total of 54 species were identified in the study area, that all were belonged to 11
order and 27 families, of which 34 species in summer and 35 species in winter were recorded.
Shannon index varied from zero to 2.17 with mean 1.17 in summer and zero to 1.85 with mean
1.04 in winter.
Conclusion: The Shannon Diversity Index distribution for both seasons only showed two
hotspots area in the northeastern of Shidvar islands and then north line of Lavan island,
indicating probably a better ecological condition, the presence of coral reefs and the presence
of shelter, and as a result, the presence of more nutrients, which leads to more diversity of fish
in these two areas.