[All-postdocs] Bioseminar - Calvin Quigley

[Ana Velez]

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Biology Department Seminar

Thursday, March 13, 2025 - 12:00 pm
Redfield Auditorium

Calvin Quigley
Postdoctoral Investigator, WHOI

Optimizing Coral Reef Interventions Using Biophysical Models Of Larval Connectivity
Population connectivity is an important criterion in marine spatial planning and site selection for active restoration of coral reef ecosystems. Biophysical models of larval dispersal are widely used, but confidence in these estimates for coral reef ecosystems are hampered by the coarse spatial resolution of most models relative to the fine-scale spatial and temporal heterogeneity of reef environments. Here, we use a new, meter-scale unstructured grid hydrodynamic model of the main Hawaiian Islands, based on the SCHISM modelling system validated against in situ observations of temperature, tides and waves, to simulate larval dispersal to and from reefs targeted for protection and restoration. Our results reveal spatial heterogeneity in dispersal and connectivity patterns over short length-scales not previously identified in coarser grid models. We then demonstrate an intuitive, interactive spatial display of these complex connectivity outputs, accessible to a diversity of coral reef stakeholders and decision-makers. Combining high-resolution modelling of key processes with intuitive visualizations of the output will enable conservation and restoration practitioners to target tractable areas for conservation and restoration and optimize the long-term outcomes.

For questions, contact:

Ana María Vélez
Administrative Associate
Ph: (+1)(508)289-2334
[signature_1005462319]

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