Assessment Model Helps Identify At‑Risk Coral Reefs

Lead author Kate Whitton explained that a 30% coral cover might be acceptable in one region but could indicate serious decline elsewhere. The new framework assigns ecological categories to each reef patch, enabling scientists to pinpoint hotspots of vulnerability and prioritize recovery measures. Complex‑shaped corals were found to be more susceptible than simple, rounded forms, leading to flatter reef structures that provide fewer shelters for fish and reduce resilience against storm surges.

These insights aim to support timely interventions before irreversible damage occurs.