Cold-Water Anomaly Kills Corals in Florida
Author Information
Author(s): Diego Lirman, Stephanie Schopmeyer, Derek Manzello, Lewis J. Gramer, William F. Precht, Frank Muller-Karger, Kenneth Banks, Brian Barnes, Erich Bartels, Amanda Bourque, James Byrne, Scott Donahue, Janice Duquesnel, Louis Fisher, David Gilliam, James Hendee, Meaghan Johnson, Kerry Maxwell, Erin McDevitt, Jamie Monty, Digna Rueda, Rob Ruzicka, Sara Thanner
Primary Institution: Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami
Hypothesis
What are the effects of extreme cold-water events on coral mortality in the Florida Reef Tract?
Conclusion
The cold-water anomaly of January 2010 caused the worst coral mortality on record for the Florida Reef Tract.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean percent coral mortality recorded for all species and subregions was 11.5% in the 2010 winter, compared to 0.5% recorded in the previous five summers.
- Highest mean mortality (15%–39%) was documented for inshore habitats where temperatures were <11°C for prolonged periods.
- Increases in mortality from previous years were significant for 21 of 25 coral species.
Takeaway
In January 2010, a cold snap killed a lot of corals in Florida, much more than usual, showing how extreme weather can hurt these underwater ecosystems.
Methodology
Reef surveys were conducted from Martin County to the Lower Florida Keys to assess coral mortality patterns after the cold-water anomaly.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on stony corals and did not assess other benthic organisms affected by the cold event.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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