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Sustained coral reef growth in the critical wave dissipation zone of a Maldivian atoll

Earth Sciences

Sustained coral reef growth in the critical wave dissipation zone of a Maldivian atoll

P. S. Kench, E. P. Beetham, et al.

Discover groundbreaking research by Paul S. Kench and team that unveils a new method for measuring contemporary coral reef growth in the Maldives. This study reveals that coral reefs may keep pace with rising sea levels, a crucial insight for predicting future coastal hazard exposure.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
Sea-level rise is expected to outpace the capacity of coral reefs to grow and maintain their wave protection function, exacerbating coastal flooding and erosion. This study presents a new method for measuring contemporary reef accretion on a Maldivian atoll reef rim, showing growth rates that could keep pace with current sea-level rise if maintained. Findings highlight the need to resolve contemporary reef accretion at the critical wave dissipation zone to improve predictions of future reef growth and re-evaluate coastal hazard exposure.
Publisher
Communications Earth & Environment
Published On
Jan 11, 2022
Authors
Paul S. Kench, Edward P. Beetham, Tracey Turner, Kyle M. Morgan, Susan D. Owen, Roger F. McLean
Tags
sea-level rise
coral reef
coastal flooding
accretion
Maldives
wave dissipation
coastal hazards
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