Work

Coral Reef Calculus: Nature’s Equation for Pollution Control

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Coral reefs play an essential ecological role in maintaining marine water quality by naturally filtering contaminants. This study investigates the quantitative capability of coral reef ecosystems to reduce waterborne pollutants using biologically mediated processes. A systematic methodology, combining in situ observations, laboratory simulations, and analytical modeling, was adopted to determine the filtration efficiency of coral reefs. Remote sensing and photogrammetry characterized reef morphology, while microbial consortia transformations and coral polyp assimilation rates were quantified using biochemical assays. Results demonstrated significant nutrient uptake by coral polyps, particularly nitrogenous compounds, with higher removal efficiencies under stable salinity conditions. Temperature-induced stress was found to reduce polyp functionality. Enhanced sediment attenuation near reef structures improved coastal water transparency. The integration of vegetation buffers adjacent to reefs further augmented pollutant removal efficiency, with combined ecological strategies for effective pollution management.

Source: Water

DOI: 10.3390/w17081210

Authors: Vasileios Alevizos, Zongliang Yue, Sabrina Edralin, Clark Xu, Nikitas Gerolimos, George A. Papakostas