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.

珊瑚礁是异常多样且丰饶的海洋生物的栖息地。连接海岸与遮蔽泻湖至开阔大洋的珊瑚礁通道（reef passages），是这类生态系统中兼具重要性却鲜有研究的组成部分。非生物与生物要素会经由这些珊瑚礁通道流通，支撑着诸多关键生态过程（例如鱼类产卵）。珊瑚礁通道为岛屿及其居民提供了多重社会与生态效益，但迄今为止，其多维度的重要性既未得到系统界定与表征，也未获得广泛认可。本研究对太平洋9座岛屿（斐济、新喀里多尼亚、瓦努阿图）的113处珊瑚礁通道展开了调查。本研究借助地理信息系统（Geographic Information System）对卫星影像开展目视解译，制定了分类标准，以界定三类截然不同的珊瑚礁通道，分类主要依据为距海岸线的距离以及封闭水体的存在与否。本研究的讨论部分明确了优化与完善这一初步分类体系的路径，将其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有力支撑。