Evaluation of Coral Reef Seascape in ʻĀhihi Kīnaʻu, Maui with Perspectives in Landscape Ecology

Abstract

The primary focus of this study was to produce temporal and spatial information needed to assist in the management of 'Āhihi Kīna'u Natural Area Reserve System (NARS). The research goals included quantifying temporal changes in inshore biological communities resulting from shoreline access closure, and characterizing spatial patterns of coral and crustose coralline algae (CCA) using a spatial statistical approach. Resultant temporal change in a location known as the Montipora Pond showed decreased live coral and increased dead coral during this study. Spatial structure and local clustering of CCA cover existed, but it was negligible for coral. CCA cover was better estimated by a spatial correlation model. Coral cover exhibited no autocorrelation, but weak spatial dependence on covariates. The spatial statistical approach should be considered in future studies. New temporal and spatial information produced during this study comprises a valuable baseline that will support future preservation and management decisions.