Fish species composition and abundance on a subtropical, artificial reef on the east coast of South Africa

The composition and abundance of fish species on a derelict rocky pier on t he Durban beach front, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, were assessed by means of underwater visual census, using transects. A total of 74 species were re corded on the reef; with convict surgeons (Acanthurus triostegus), sash dam sels (Plectroglyphidodon leucozonus), blacktail (Diplodus sargus capensis) and blennies being most abundant. Species diversity was similar in April an d August, although abundances of many species were lower in the fatter mont h. Several species were thought to be resident on the reef, and there was s ome evidence for seasonal recruitment in others. Like natural shallow reefs , this artificial reef is a rich source of secondary production, enabling i t to support an abundant and diverse fish population.