Coral Cover Dynamics on the Great Barrier Reef (1995–2009)
Author Information
Author(s): Kate Osborne, Andrew M. Dolman, Scott C. Burgess, Kerryn A. Johns
Primary Institution: Australian Institute of Marine Science
Hypothesis
What are the patterns of change and extent of decline in coral cover on the Great Barrier Reef from 1995 to 2009?
Conclusion
Coral cover on the Great Barrier Reef remained stable from 1995 to 2009, despite localized declines in some areas.
Supporting Evidence
- Coral cover averaged 30% over the study period.
- Six subregions saw an increase in coral cover, while seven experienced a decrease.
- Acanthaster planci predation and storms were the main causes of coral loss.
- Coral cover did not show a consistent decline across the entire Great Barrier Reef.
- Localized disturbances led to variable changes in coral cover at subregional scales.
Takeaway
The amount of coral on the Great Barrier Reef didn't get worse from 1995 to 2009, but some areas had more coral while others had less.
Methodology
Coral communities were surveyed annually on 47 reefs using a point-sampling technique along transects.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in data collection due to limited historical data on coral cover prior to the 1980s.
Limitations
The study only covers a 16-year period, which may not capture long-term trends.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
−0.68, 0.14
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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