Hoi Ha Wan Moon Island CoralWatch Survey (2015~2023)

Author(s)
Author(s)
Zhang, A. H. Y.
Date Issued
2024
Conference
IEEE Young Engineers Conference 2024
Abstract
Oceans cover 71% of the Earth, with an average depth 3.68 kilometers. Light can only penetrate 200m or about 5% of that depth. As of June, 2024, only 21.6 % of the ocean floor has been mapped. Considering that humans have landed on the moon, sent robots to Mars, explored most planets, and have launched two spacecraft beyond the solar system, it is surprising that we have not fully studied our own planet. The challenge lies in the sea, where extreme cold and immense water pressure make deep-sea exploration difficult for humans. Additionally, more research is also needed in shallow ocean areas, particularly on the effects of climate change on the oceans. One of the indicator species in tropical and subtropical regions is coral. The importance of this carbon sink was not realized until recently. Only 1% of the approximately 361 million square kilometers of land contains coral. Within this small area of approximately 3.6 million square kilometers, coral support 30% of fish and 25% of marine species throughout their life cycles. An averaged sized, healthy coral area can permanently capture 2 to 8 tons of carbon per year, making a total of between 72 million to 2.8 billion tons per year, depending on coral health, weather and water conditions. Therefore, it is important to monitor and protect these areas. CoralWatch Surveys can show the health of coral ecosystems. These surveys have been conducted since the 2000’s at several locations, including inside the Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park. In 2015, the Moon Island coral area, within the park, was added to the survey locations. The results show that the overall coral health is on an upward trend and improving, although fluctuations show significant changes. The upward trend is encouraging, yet the impact of larger fluctuations remains unclear, and further research is needed.
URI
SFU Affiliated Publication
Yes
Availability at SFU Library

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