![]() ![]() locations, species and species tolerance information. For this, the IDPT makes use of rapid assessment dredge plume modelling, a database with computed hydrodynamic background conditions and a database with ecological information, i.e. The Interactive Dredge Planning Tool (IDPT) is able to perform a rapid assessment of the expected, initial ecological effects caused by interactively defined dredging operations. This study suggests that the effects of dredging on stony corals are species specific.Dredging and other human activities resulting in increase in turbidity levels and sedimentation rates may impact coastal ecosystems such as coral reefs and sea grass meadows. The corals may be relying on other means of sediment removal. Polyp expansion, a means of sediment rejection, did not correlate with the proximity to dredging. Bleaching occurred in many of the colonies but may have been caused by an unknown factor. stokesii suggested that dredging effects caused a change in columella shape. At treatment stations, associated with dredging, a significant decrease in extension growth rate in S. ![]() After dredging was completed, the corals were collected for growth analysis (linear extension) by the Alizarin stain method. Two coral species abundant in this area, Solenastrea bournoni and Dichocoenia stokesii, were monitored monthly on each reef for signs of bleaching and polyp expansion, indicators of stress and surface clearing ability respectively. Control stations were placed at least 3km north, offshore of John U. Treatment stations were at offshore (adjacent to the borrow area) and nearshore (adjacent to fill area) locations. During the project, approximately 1.1 million cubic yards of beach compatible material was taken from two offshore borrow areas and placed on 5.3 miles of beach. Sedimentation parameters, turbidity, extension (linear) growth, bleaching and polyp expansion were examined prior to, during, and after the dredge and fill activities associated with the first renourishment of Hollywood and Hallandale beaches, 1991. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |