Resiliency is the key to predicting whether a reef will recover after major disturbance events such as mass coral bleaching events, cyclones, disease, or outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish. Working with partners like the University of Miami, we aim to refine models that integrate ecological, biological, and environmental data to better forecast reef futures. By developing reliable resiliency models, we can help managers identify reefs most likely to survive in a changing ocean, guiding smarter, science-based conservation investments that safeguard reefs where they are most likely to endure.

Our expertise lies in conducting comprehensive and standardized reef surveys that allow scientists to compare reef conditions across regions and time. Using methods refined during the Global Reef Expedition, we collect critical data on coral cover, fish biomass, and benthic composition. These standardized approaches provide powerful, comparable datasets that reveal both global patterns and local challenges. By continuing to apply these methods, we can help researchers, managers, and governments monitor reef health, identify emerging threats, and track the effectiveness of conservation efforts over time.

Not all reefs are equally vulnerable. Some possess natural advantages that make them more resilient to stress. Reefs influenced by cooler waters from upwelling or strong currents, or those in deeper or shaded areas, are often less affected by rising ocean temperatures. Resiliency can also come from the broader ecosystem: corals that host heat-tolerant symbiotic algae, reefs with high genetic diversity, or communities rich in herbivorous fish that keep algae growth in check. Connectivity further strengthens recovery, as reefs linked to healthier neighbors can be replenished with new coral larvae after disturbance. By identifying reefs with these natural advantages — the ones most likely to withstand climate change and rebound after bleaching or storms — we can prioritize protection and focus conservation efforts where they will make the greatest long-term impact.

Science is only as powerful as its application. The Foundation is committed to sharing findings broadly with the global community — from publishing peer-reviewed research to working directly with conservation organizations and governments. Our goal is to ensure that the knowledge gained from our reef health and resiliency work informs conservation policies and practices worldwide. By translating science into action, we help chart a course for coral reefs to survive and thrive in the face of unprecedented challenges.