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Assessing Structural Connectivity of Caribbean Coral Reef, Mangroves, and Seagrass Using Remote Sensing
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Location research
Date
2025-05
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Language
en
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Abstract
In the Caribbean, coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass ecosystems frequently co-exist and interact in intricate ways. Numerous studies have highlighted the interdependency of these ecosystems through processes such as nutrient cycling, species habitat sharing, and coastal protection. Maintaining the connectivity between these ecosystems is crucial for preserving
biodiversity, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and supporting coastal livelihoods. Consequently, conservation efforts must prioritize the integrity of these connections rather than treating each habitat type separately.
While existing research has primarily focused on the functional connectivity of these coastal ecosystems—addressing ecological interactions and species movement—the structural
connectivity, which examines how the physical arrangement and spatial configuration of ecosystems influence their interdependency and resilience, remains relatively understudied.
Recent advancements in remote sensing technologies, such as accessible high-resolution spatio-temporal satellite imagery, can help us bridge this knowledge gap. This proposed
research seeks to leverage these technologies to map and evaluate the structural connectivity of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds in the ABC islands and potentially across the
broader Caribbean region. The study will assess a range of structural connectivity proxies, including distance between habitats, boundary lengths, patch size, shape complexity, presence of barriers, and the number of patches. Ground-truthing will be conducted to validate these assessments, ensuring robust and reliable results. The findings will offer valuable insights for conservation managers and NGOs and provide critical input for tools like MarxanConnect, aiding the design and implementation of marine protected areas (MPAs). This will enhance efforts to preserve ecosystem connectivity and resilience.
Citation
Becker, T. (2025, May). Assessing Structural Connectivity of Caribbean Coral Reef, Mangroves, and Seagrass Using Remote Sensing. [Poster session]. ICMS 2025 From island to the global oceans. University of Aruba.
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Journal / Book / Conference
ICMS 2025 From island to the global oceans