A recent study by the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC), in collaboration with Stanford University and the University of Queensland, has uncovered how the natural shapes of coral reefs interact with ocean currents and waves to influence coral growth. Using advanced techniques like underwater mapping, water flow measurements, and sediment analysis, researchers have gained new insights into the hidden forces that help reefs recover after disturbances.
The study focused on Lighthouse (Kesebekuu) and Ngederrak reefs, which were heavily damaged by Typhoon Bopha in 2012. These reefs recovered at different rates due to varying seabed shapes and water movements. The research explains that many reefs are not flat surfaces; they feature natural ridges (spurs) and valleys (grooves). These structures, common on windward reefs worldwide, control water movement across the reef. Spurs experience stronger wave action, which clears away sediment and keeps these areas clean for corals to settle. In contrast, grooves collect sediment, especially when the tide is flowing out to sea, which is then transported to deeper areas away from the reef.
