Assessment of seabird richness and seasonality on the seamounts of Cocos Submarine Volcanic Ridge: analysis along routes of research and ecotourism
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22458/rb.v36i2.6275Keywords:
seabirds, Eastern Tropical Pacific, Cocos Range, seasonality, bird richnessAbstract
Seabirds play a critical role in oceanic ecosystems, yet they remain one of the least studied groups in the Tropical Eastern Pacific, particularly in Costa Rica. This study analyzed the richness and seasonality of seabirds associated with the submarine seamounts of the Cocos Submarine Volcanic Ridge, through systematic observations conducted in 182 surveys between 2020 and 2025 during nine expeditions following research and ecotourism routes to Cocos Island. A total of 31 species belonging to eight families were recorded, with Laridae, Hydrobatidae, and Procellariidae being the most represented. The most frequently detected species were Sula sula, Sula brewsteri and Ardenna pacifica. Nine species are breeding residents, twenty are migratory, and two are accidental; additionally, six species are listed under some threat category according to the IUCN. The results highlight the role of seamounts as key habitats and aggregation and transit points for oceanic birds of diverse origins and emphasize the value of scientific ecotourism as a monitoring tool. This study provides a baseline for future marine conservation programs and promotes
the integration of seabirds as bioindicators or focal elements in the management of the Tropical Eastern Pacific.
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