Reef restoration through soundscapes: biodiversity, acoustic cues, and larval recruitment
Key Facts
FUNDING SCHEME Darwin Plus Local
VALUE £50,000
WHERE Turks and Caicos Islands
Summary
This study investigates how coral degradation affects biodiversity, acoustic cues, and larval recruitment on South Caicos reefs. We aim to demonstrate that as coral health declines, biodiversity and acoustic activity will decrease, weakening cues that guide larvae to suitable habitats. Furthermore, to test if soundscape loss impacts recruitment, a replay experiment will broadcast healthy reef sounds in degraded areas, assessing if acoustic cues can boost larval settlement. Results will guide restoration efforts by determining if acoustics can support coral recovery.