Thesis (BS Biology) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2010

The spatial temporal distribution of crown-of thorns or COT ( Acanthaster planci L.) was investigated in three marine protected areas (MPAs) in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) from December 2008 to December 2009. Two assessment techniques were used, namely: photo quadrat for the live coral cover and belt transect for the density of COT and its predators. Interview with the local community for the historical occurrence and clean-ups of COTs and collection of precipitation data was conducted. Results showed that for the spatial distribution of COTs, Sanipaan MPA had the highest COT density because of the area?s high hard coral cover, minimal human intervention, and low density of its predators. For the temporal distribution, the sites were independently analyzed. In Aundanao MPA, a low hard coral cover was observed during the initial survey and thus, a low COT density was already expected for the entire year. In Coral Garden MPA, despite of having high coral cover, the data gathered no longer showed the usual temporal distribution of COTs due to constant COT harvesting in the area. In Sanipaan MPA, a high COT density was observed during April and August while during November, there was a significant low COT density. The difference of COT population during the three sampling periods was caused by its preference to spawn on the months of November to April during which the water temperature is low. The historical precipitation data was also gathered and though a trend can be observed, more studies are needed to strengthen its relationship with COT outbreaks. In conclusion, the spatial distribution of COTs depends on the abundance of hard corals in an area while the temporal distribution is dictated by the COT?s spawning aggregation.