Title: CONNECTIVITY OF THE PULLEY RIDGE - SOUTH FLORIDA CORAL REEF ECOSYSTEM: PROCESSES TO DECISION-SUPPORT RESOURCES

Abstract: The coral reef ecosystem of the southeast United States is a complex system of interconnected, deep and shallow reefs stretching along the western, southern and southeastern coasts of Florida. Given its economic and ecological value, there is a strong need to develop effective management options that encompass the entire ecosystem and its complex interactions. The goal of the Pulley Ridge research program is to provide the key scientific information needed to rigorously address this management challenge with a specific focus on the mesophotic reefs located on Pulley Ridge. We adopt an interdisciplinary approach (physical oceanography, bio-physical modeling, population genetics, population dynamics of key species) and yield a quantitative understanding of the scale and extent of connectivity. Building on this information we then incorporate studies on the community structure and valuation of ecosystem services (e.g., fisheries) to further refine management options and help establish priorities. Through consultation with state, federal and private stakeholders, we are integrating our findings into a Decision Support Resource to aggregate findings and archive data.

Authors: Cowen RK, Ortner PB, Pomponi SA

Presentation: Oral

Session: 15

Date: 06/23/16

Time: 13:45

Location: 317 A/B

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