NWSSRP Theme 4 - Understanding the Isolated Coral Atolls of the North West Shelf (Rowley Shoals)

Theme 4 program is forging new paths in underwater monitoring by comparing traditional diver-based methods with autonomous methods, including independent machines capable of collecting data across large areas of ocean and other that can process that information very quickly. These new cost-effective technologies could shape a new age of reef monitoring across the region. The scope of work includes:1. producing a habitat model linking the distribution of biological communities with reef structure and physical condition2. applying the habitat model and existing data to design a monitoring program that isolates the effects of multiple pressures3. incorporating emerging technologies, particularly autonomous and automated approaches to data acquisition and processing, that can be applied more widely.The objectives are to quantify baseline spatial dynamics of key biological communities and their physical drivers in an adaptive monitoring program that addresses processes of change and integrates new technologies for collection and processing of data.