Enteric viruses were detected throughout the study area.
In all years combined, at least one virus type was detected
at 21 of the 33 sampled reef sites (63.6%) (Fig. 2). In 2001,
norovirus and enterovirus were each detected at one of the
nine sampled stations (11.0%). These positive samples were
collected in the Dry Tortugas (Black Coral Rock and Bird
Key), which is relatively pristine, compared to the rest of
the Florida Keys, given that there is little human habitation.
Ft. Jefferson, on Garden Key, and the lighthouse on
Loggerhead Key are staffed by a small number of Park Service
personnel and volunteers (Dry Tortugas National
Park, 2000). Only enteroviruses were detected in 2002
and were found at 21.7% of stations (5 of 23 reefs), including
two reefs in the Upper Keys, two in the Lower Keys
and at Black Coral Rock in the Dry Tortugas. In 2003,
enteroviruses were detected at only one of 23 reefs
(Western Head Patch Reef in the Lower Keys); however,
adenoviruses occurrence was widespread (21 of 23 stations,
91%)