DataSheet_1_A Typology for Reef Passages.pdf

Coral reefs host exceptionally diverse and abundant marine life. Connecting coasts and sheltered lagoons to the open ocean, reef passages are important yet poorly studied components of these ecosystems. Abiotic and biotic elements ‘pass’ through these reef passages, supporting critical ecological processes (e.g. fish spawning). Reef passages provide multiple social and ecological benefits for islands and their peoples, but are so far neither characterized nor recognized for their multifaceted significance. This study investigated 113 reef passages across nine Pacific islands (Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu). GIS-based visual interpretations of satellite imagery were used to develop criteria to define three distinct types, mainly based on distance to coastline and presence/absence of an enclosed water body. The discussion identifies ways to refine and augment this preliminary typology as part of a research agenda for reef passages. With these next steps, this typology will be extendable to other regions to better document reef passages and their various roles, supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries management.

珊瑚礁孕育着异常多样且丰富的海洋生物群落。连接沿岸与遮蔽潟湖并通向外海的珊瑚礁通道（reef passages），是这类生态系统中至关重要却迄今研究匮乏的组成部分。非生物与生物要素经由此类通道流通，支撑着诸多关键生态过程（例如鱼类产卵）。珊瑚礁通道可为岛屿及其民众提供多重社会与生态效益，但迄今为止既未得到系统性特征界定，其多维度的重要性也未获得认可。
本研究对太平洋9个岛屿（斐济、新喀里多尼亚、瓦努阿图）的113处珊瑚礁通道展开了调研。
研究采用基于地理信息系统（Geographic Information System，简称GIS）的卫星影像目视解译方法，制定了三类不同珊瑚礁通道的界定标准，该分类主要基于通道距海岸线的距离以及是否存在封闭水体。
本研究的讨论部分提出了优化与完善该初步分类体系的路径，以此作为珊瑚礁通道研究议程的组成部分。通过推进上述后续研究步骤，该分类体系可推广至其他区域，以更全面地记录珊瑚礁通道及其多样功能，从而为生物多样性保护与可持续渔业管理提供支撑。