How is coral and algae species composition on Heron Reef Flat?

Theme: Biodiversity and conservation science

Description: 

Heron Reef Flat has low coral cover and high macro algae cover. Long term monitoring data describing benthic composition have been collected annually since 2004 all around the reef. Little is known why some species coral e.g. pocilopora damicornous reduces and some algae cover increased on the Reef Flat over time. This project will involve potential collection of new data, and analysis of the new or available benthic field data derived from geolocated photoquadrats to assess changes taking place for specific species of coral and algae.

Additional Information: The honors project will be conducted within the staff and students Marine Ecosystems Monitoring Lab that is focusing their research on coral reef and seagrass habitats using field and earth observation-based methods.

Contact: Dr Nick Hammerman & Prof Chris Roelfsema