Anthropogenic pressure indicators associated with vessel groundings on coral reefs in a marine protected area

Abstract

Historical information was collected on vessel groundings in the Parque Nacional Sistema Arrecifal Veracruzano (Veracruz Reef System National Park, PNSAV) during the periods 1902–1945 and 1970–2010 to generate specific pressure indicators associated with these events. Information on 126 vessel groundings was gathered, and the cause, specific location, season, and type of vessel were analyzed. Three indicators were generated: stranding pressure, annual pressure, and pressure per site. The highest number of vessel groundings occurred in 1925 and on the Anegada de Adentro reef, the most impacted in both periods. The most common causes of strandings were human error and northerly winds (Nortes). Small vessels were the ones that impacted the most against the reefs. The indicators showed that despite technological advances, pressure caused by groundings in PNSAV continues to occur at a medium level. These indicators are relevant for the management of the area in view of the imminent expansion of the port of Veracruz, which will likely lead to increased vessel traffic and a potential increase in vessel groundings.