Live hard coral coverage and coral diseases distribution in the Ujung Kulon National Park, Banten, Indonesia

The global climate change accompanied with coral diseases outbreaks have been the major key factor of the main issues in Indonesian reefs. However, there is still a lack of studies for the coral diseases in most of the remote reefs across Indonesia. The objective of this study was to provide baseline data for coral health at two different coral reefs within Ujung Kulon National Park in Banten. In terms of percentage cover, Legon Lentah (60.70±5.24%) at the reef crest was found in greatest portion, whilst the lowest percentage cover was found in Citerjun (14.85±6.63%). At the reef slope, the highest percentage coral cover was found in Legon Haji (36.78±4.67%) and the lowest percentage cover was found in Ciapus (3.21±0.93%). Most of the coral observed during this study was infected (85.51% of total colonies). The diseases and compromised health were affected 42 genera, with Porites being the highest genera impacted. The damage caused by sedimentation in the reef slope was the most compromised health issues which impacted the corals. Interestingly, the colored band disease on corals was found in the relatively low number of corals. In order to fully understand all the diseases infect the corals, coral health surveys should be conducted on future management. This study provides baseline data on the coral health within the reefs of Ujung Kulon National Park, Banten, Indonesia.