Here, we use the prevalence of four coral diseases and eight additional
indicators of compromised coral health to assess the effects of
recreational diving intensity on coral reefs surrounding Koh Tao. To
date, the concurrent use of multiple field-based signs of disease and
other indicators of compromised health to classify stress associated
with human activities on reef corals has not been undertaken. Using
a multitude of indicators to assess coral health may, for the first time,
improve our capacity to identify more specific sources of impacts
from tourism on reef corals. In light of predicted increases in tourism
and recreational activities globally, the results of this study will aid
in the development of practical management strategies to mitigate
the impacts of frequent visitation that increase the likelihood of
coral disease outbreaks and ensure long-term persistence of corals
reefs and livelihoods in developing coastal regions.