Turbid reefs
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Abstract
Turbid coral reefs are increasingly recognized as ecologically distinct components of the global reef mosaic. Once regarded primarily as poor or degraded reef systems, these reefs are now understood to host diverse coral communities uniquely adapted to dynamic, sediment-rich environments. This chapter explores the ecological significance, adaptive strategies, and conservation potential of turbid coral reefs in the context of global environmental change. Turbid reef corals exhibit specialized traits that enable them to withstand chronic low light, elevated sedimentation, and fluctuating temperature regimes, often supporting stress-tolerant symbiont assemblages and enhanced heterotrophic capabilities. These features may facilitate resistance to climate-induced coral bleaching, positioning turbid reefs as potential climate refugia in an increasingly warming ocean. However, ongoing coastal development and nutrient enrichment pose significant risks to these systems, threatening to undermine their resilience. A nuanced understanding of the differences between naturally turbid and anthropogenically impacted reefs is essential for effective conservation and management. This chapter highlights the importance of addressing knowledge gaps surrounding the cumulative impacts of local and global stressors on turbid reef ecosystems and calls for targeted research to clarify their role in the future of coral reef conservation.
Keywords
adaptation, low light, nearshore reefs, sedimentation, turbidity
Document Type
Book Chapter
Date of Publication
1-1-2026
E-ISSN
22137203
ISSN
2213719X
Volume
24
Publication Title
Extreme and Marginal Coral Reefs and Communities
Publisher
Springer
School
Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research / School of Science
Copyright
subscription content
First Page
165
Last Page
181
Recommended Citation
Dee, S., & Zweifler, A. (2026). Turbid reefs. In M. O. Soares, T. B. Smith, E. F. Camp, & V. Schoepf (Eds.), Extreme and marginal coral reefs and communities (pp. 165-181). Coral Reefs of the World. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-28035-0_9