Potential Implications of AI on Coral Reef in the Florida Keys

*Note: this article was written by Kush Gulati

As a resident of Florida and having dove at 80 different dive sites in the Florida Keys, Floridian reefs hold a special place in my heart. With the increasing effects of anthropogenic impacts, coral reefs in the Keys have degraded from 25% coral coverage to barely 2%. As carbon dioxide levels increase leading to coral skeletons weakening and rising sea temperatures leading to wide-scale coral bleaching, the deterioration of coral gets worse every year. While restoration efforts are being made to preserve the corals from dedicated non-profits like Mote Marine Lab, Reef Renewal USA, and CRF, it is still in its early stages of development. In order to revolutionize coral conservation, AI has emerged a potential next step in the process of coral restoration.

Coral Monitoring and Data Collection

Of the most prominent applications of AI in coral reef conservation, its ability to enhance monitoring and data collection stands out. Current methods of reef assessment rely on manual surveys conducted by divers, which can be time consuming and limited. Underwater drones that use AI and machine learning algorithms have the ability to process vast amounts of underwater imagery to detect coral bleaching, track biodiversity, and identify signs of disease more efficiently and accurately than human researchers.

For instance, prominent organizations like NOAA and conservation groups in the Keys have begun utilizing AI tools to analyze satellite and drone imagery. This allows for scientists to monitor changes in coral health in real time. These AI models can detect almost invisible shifts in coral coloration, temperature changes, and algal overgrowth which could potentially provide a warning for coral restoration practitioners.

Predictive Modeling for Climate Resilience

AI’s ability to process large datasets makes it a powerful tool in modeling for coral reef resilience. Machine learning algorithms can account for historical climate data, ocean temperature changes, and pollution levels to predict future coral bleaching events. By predicting which reefs are at the highest risk, coral restoration practitioners can take the necessary next steps to ensure the survival and resilience of the effected corals.

Additionally, AI-driven climate models can assist policymakers and researchers to better understand the effects of climate change on the Florida Keys' marine ecosystems. These insights can provide insight for policy decisions regarding environmental measures.

AI in Coral Restoration and Reef Rehabilitation

AI plays a crucial role in coral restoration projects. Scientists are using AI to train coral breeding programs by identifying the most successful coral genotypes. Machine learning models can look at genetic data to determine which corals are able to overcome rising ocean temperatures and acidification. These AI-identified corals can then be bred and out planted onto Floridian reefs.

Likewise, AI-assisted systems are being developed to autonomously plant coral fragments in degraded reefs, significantly accelerating restoration efforts. Researchers are also testing AI incorporated micropropagation techniques to cultivate corals at a faster rate in controlled environments before reintroducing them into the wild.

Ultimately, AI's potential to transform coral conservation in the Florida Keys by improving monitoring, predictive modeling, and restoration efforts is limitless. However, its worth depends on how it is implemented and whether it is supplemented by expansive climate action and conservationist policies. As AI technology continues to improve, its role in the future of restoring coral reefs is bright. By utilizing AI effectively, we can protect the delicate marine ecosystems of the Florida Keys forever.