Skirving, William, Heron, Mal, and Heron, Scott (2006) The hydrodynamics of a bleaching event: implications for management and monitoring. In: Phinney, Jonathan T., Hoegh-Guldberg, 0ve, Kleypas, Joanie, Skirving, William, and Strong, Al, (eds.) Coral Reefs and Climate Change: Science and Management. American Geophysical Union, Washington DC, USA, pp. 145-161.

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Abstract

This chapter examines the hydrodynamic conditions that are present during a coral bleaching event. Meteorological and climate parameters and influences are discussed. The physics of mixing and its influence on the horizontal and vertical variations of sea temperature are examined. A specialized hydrodynamic model for Palau is then presented as a case study to demonstrate the utility of these models for understanding spatial variations during bleaching events. This case study along with the other sections of this chapter provide the foundation for concluding that hydrodynamic modeling can provide us with a relatively accurate glimpse of the spatial variation of thermal stress and, therefore, what future stress events may hold for corals. Although the timing of a coral bleaching event is unknown and cannot be predicted with current technology, the relative patterns of sea surface temperature during individual bleaching events can be predicted using current modeling techniques. However, improvements in our understanding of coral physiology and higher spatial-resolution climate models are necessary before the full potential of these predictions can be utilized in management decisions.

Item ID:	9983
Item Type:	Book Chapter (Research - B1)
ISBN:	978-0-87590-359-0
ISSN:	0733-9569
Related URLs:	http://www.agu.org/pubs/books/
Additional Information:	Coastal and Estuarine Studies 61
Date Deposited:	09 Apr 2010 01:23
FoR Codes:	04 EARTH SCIENCES > 0405 Oceanography > 040503 Physical Oceanography @ 100%
SEO Codes:	96 ENVIRONMENT > 9603 Climate and Climate Change > 960399 Climate and Climate Change not elsewhere classified @ 100%
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