IMA researching ways to strengthen coral reef restoration in Tobago

The Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), together with a research team from Coastal Dynamics Limited (CDL), is using advanced computer models to gain new insights into Tobago’s coral reef ecosystems.

A news release from the Institute explains that the computer models help scientists understand how ocean currents interact with coral structures and how coral larvae move through the water.

“This research could greatly improve coral restoration efforts by showing how different reef systems are connected and how coral larvae spread,” the IMA release said.

In a recent study titled “A Numerical Modelling Approach to Coral Restoration and Management: Understanding Tobago’s Hydrodynamics and Reef Connectivity”, IMA researchers report their findings on how water movement is shaping the health and growth of coral reef ecosystems around Tobago.

“By understanding these underwater patterns,” the IMA explained, “the scientific team aims to better protect and restore the reef structures that are vital to the island’s marine life and coastal communities.”

According to the IMA, Tobago’s coral reef ecosystems play a crucial role in protecting the island’s coastlines. Acting like natural barriers, these reef structures help shield shorelines from the impact of waves and storms, reducing damage to property and the environment.

The IMA also notes that beyond coastal protection, Tobago’s coral reef communities support local livelihoods through fishing and tourism, which are vital to the island’s economy. They also provide homes for countless marine species, contributing to a healthy and thriving ocean ecosystem.

However, these coral ecosystems face growing threats from human activities and climate change. Rising sea temperatures are causing more frequent marine heatwaves, which lead to coral bleaching—a condition that makes corals more vulnerable to disease and less able to withstand environmental changes. When coral reefs suffer, so do the services they provide to the community.

Restoring Tobago’s coral reef systems

Coral Reef Ecologist at the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), Dr Anjani Ganase, highlighted the importance of reef connectivity and management in coral restoration.

“Understanding the interactions between ocean currents and coral reef systems is crucial for effective restoration efforts. It allows us to predict larval dispersal patterns and identify areas that may be more resilient to environmental changes,” she noted.

“By integrating this knowledge with ongoing monitoring,” she explained, “we can develop more targeted strategies that enhance the recovery of our reef communities.”

These restoration efforts are part of the Marine Resilience Initiative (MARIN) Tobago, a project supported by bpTT. The initiative focuses on coral reef and seagrass restoration, while building a network for Tobago’s marine resilience.

The research team from Coastal Dynamics Limited attending the International Coastal Symposium 2024. From left to right: Medina Ishmael-Lalla; Nazeer Gopaul; and Anesha Deonarine. [Image courtesy IMA]

Using technology to help reef communities recover

Similar to video games, the scientists use computer simulations through advanced modelling techniques to mimic real-life scenarios, which helps with studying how ocean currents around Tobago transport coral larvae. The IMA notes that the models can even be extended to explore connections with nearby islands such as Grenada, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The project uses two main types of models:

  ●   Hydrodynamic Modelling.  This simulates ocean conditions such as water flow, tides, temperature, and salinity levels.

  ●   Agent-Based Modelling.  This tracks how coral larvae drift with the currents until they eventually settle on the reef systems.

Oceanographer and Numerical Modeller at Coastal Dynamics Limited (CDL), Medina Ishmael-Lalla, describes how modelling is helping scientists with their attempts to protect Tobago’s coral reefs.

“Numerical modelling is a cost-effective way to explore Tobago’s ocean dynamics and reef connections,” Ishmael-Lalla noted.

“By simulating these conditions, we can develop targeted strategies for coral reef preservation and restoration, especially following coral bleaching events. This approach helps us evaluate different scenarios, including the impacts of climate change,” the CDL oceanographer added.

In October 2024, CDL presented a scientific paper at the International Coastal Conference (ICS) in Doha, Qatar, showcasing the essential role of these modelling techniques in Tobago’s coral reef restoration.

Monitoring for long-term coral health

The IMA says in addition to modelling, it conducts annual coral monitoring to assess the health of Tobago’s reef structures.

“This program measures multiple factors including the amount of living coral, types of coral and fish species, and any signs of disease or damage,” the Institute points out.

Data is collected through the Coral Reef Early Warning System (CREWS) at Buccoo and Speyside, which helps IMA scientists monitor water quality, as changes in temperature and salinity can affect coral health.

“By combining both modelling and monitoring, the IMA is taking a dynamic, comprehensive approach to coral reef restoration,” the release observed. “These efforts aim to enhance the resilience of coral communities, ensuring they continue to provide essential benefits for Tobago’s people and marine life for generations to come.”

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