Methods
Study sites
The ecosystems of Kotania Bay and the adjacent area of Pelita Jaya Bay are structured by mangroves, sea grass and corals (Fig. 1). Detailed studies undertaken in 1994 indicated that mangroves occupied 1250 ha, sea grass inhabited 115 ha and the coral that can be found along the bays covered 820 ha (Wouthuyzen & Sapulete, 1994) and there does not currently appear to be any significant variations. Fringing and atoll reefs are also scattered around the bay.