Defense Date
12-2-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
Master of Science
Degree Name
Marine Science
First Advisor
Andrew Bauman, PhD.
Second Advisor
Fraser Januchowski-Hartley, PhD.
Third Advisor
Tory Chase, PhD.
Keywords
Algal turfs, Sediment, Taxonomy, Coral Reefs
Abstract
Increasing environmental stressors from anthropogenic climate change are causing reefs to shift from coral to algal dominance. Algal turfs are predicted to be the most abundant benthic group globally, and this is already apparent in some reef regions. Yet, the complexity of algal turf-sediment interactions on reef processes remains understudied. To expand our knowledge of such interactions in a high-latitude reef system, algal turf and associated sediment samples were collected from 12 sites along Florida’s Coral Reef. Linear mixed models were used to analyze the effect of reef position and dominant algal turf genera on five response variables: algal turf length, sediment mass, sediment depth, inorganic sediment content, and organic sediment content. A consistent nearshore to outer reef gradient was noted cross shelf and genera did not significantly affect the response variables. The relatively high sediment mass observed coupled with dominance by inorganic sediment suggest considerable terrestrial sediment pollution. Since algal turfs are essential primary producers on coral reefs, excess sediment threatens reduced trophic inputs, can impair coral recovery post disturbances, and potentially inhibit algal turf growth. Clear patterns were observed on algal turf length, sediment mass, and sediment composition with sediment dynamics potentially reducing overall productivity. These findings highlight the importance of understanding algal turf sediments for future management of anthropogenic reefs.
NSUWorks Citation
Nicole Messerlian. 2025. Algal turf-sediment dynamics across Florida’s Coral Reef. Master's thesis. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, . (229)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hcas_etd_all/229.