Hydrographic connections of inland water to diseased corals and water quality sites in SE FL

Coral reefs in Southeast Florida are experiencing significant declines due to Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD), which is exacerbated by environmental factors such as nutrient pollution. This study aims to understand the hydrographic connections between inland water sources and diseased coral reefs to inform better management strategies. Utilizing the multiscale ocean model SLIM, the research simulated the dispersal of nutrients from four major inlets in Southeast Florida: Government Cut, Baker’s Haulover, Port Everglades, and Hillsboro. Data on flow rates and water quality were sourced from the South Florida Water Management District’s DBHydro database. The model accounted for seasonal variations and complex coastal interactions to estimate nutrient loads and their impact on coral reefs. The results revealed that the nutrient loads from the inlets, particularly during the wet season, could influence SCTLD incidence on nearby reefs. Government Cut was identified as the largest source of pollutants, with a notable impact extending both north and south of the inlet. The study suggests a correlation between nutrient concentrations and SCTLD lesions, especially during periods of high rainfall and increased inlet flow rates. These findings highlight the importance of managing inland water quality to protect coral reefs. The model provides a detailed understanding of how nutrients from inland sources are transported to reefs, offering valuable insights for targeted intervention strategies. The seasonal variations in nutrient loads suggest that management efforts should focus on mitigating runoff during the wet season to reduce SCTLD impact. Based on these insights, several recommendations are proposed. Further studies should identify specific sources of nutrient pollution contributing to SCTLD. Extending the temporal and geographical scope of monitoring is crucial to capture recent trends and additional inlets. Moreover, developing an operational forecasting system to predict water quality conditions in real-time would aid in proactive management. This study provides crucial insights into the hydrographic dynamics affecting coral reefs in Southeast Florida. By identifying key nutrient sources and their impact on SCTLD, it lays the groundwork for effective management actions to mitigate coral disease and promote reef resilience.