Ecological implications of macroalgal removal for localised inshore reef restoration (Old ID 27319)
Role
Chief Investigator
Description
The growing dominance of fleshy macroalgae in many inshore coral reef ecosystems is recognised as a threat to ecosystem functioning and people dependent on coral reefs for their livelihoods. Physically removing macroalgae is proposed as an approach to free up space for coral recovery on algal-dominated reefs. The current state of knowledge surrounding macroalgal removal (reviewed in 2018) highlighted knowledge gaps related to physical and ecological consequences of macroalgal removal. This project aims to improve understanding of the ecosystem-wide impacts of macroalgal removal and determine its potential as a localised restoration strategy for inshore reefs increasingly impacted by anthropogenic threats.
Date
30 Jul 2021 - 30 Jul 2022
Project Type
N/A
Keywords
Microalgae;Coral-Algal Interactions;Reef Restoration;Community Composition;Sedimentation;Magnetic Island
Funding Body
Reef HQ Volunteers Association
Amount
5010
Project Team
Hillary Smith;David Bourne