A survey of fish populations at Karikari Peninsula, Northland, by scuba diving

Abstract

Census data for fishes observed by scuba divers at selected sites on the east coast of Karikari Peninsula, Northland, are given qualitatively in a checklist. Sixty‐four species in 33 families were recorded. Significant new records were those for surgeonfish (Prionurus maculatus Ogilby) and rainbow parrotfish (Suezichthys sp.). A system for quantification of densities by an underwater transect technique is presented and results are given for three sites; this method could be used by amateur divers to obtain data on the status and structure of coastal reef fish populations in New Zealand. A standardised transect procedure for divers to follow to obtain comparable results is given.