Marine reserves improve reef coral health

Marine reserves used to replenish fish stocks are also improving the health of coral on the Great Barrier Reef, research has found.

Coral disease levels are four times lower inside the reserves where fishing is banned compared with outside reserves, according to the James Cook University study.

Dr Joleah Lamb said researchers surveyed more than 80,000 corals around the Whitsunday Islands for six different diseases that commonly harm reef corals.

"We found three coral diseases were more prevalent on reefs outside no-take marine reserves, particularly on reefs with high levels of injured corals and discarded fishing line," Dr Lamb said.

This is the first time marine reserves have been shown to enhance coral health on the Great Barrier Reef.

Researchers hope their findings send a clear message to reef managers about the benefits of marine reserves for coral health.