Document Type
Poster
Publication Title
Northrop Grumman Engineering & Science Student Design Showcase
Abstract
Coral reef ecosystems are facing shifts in community composition because of climate change. Species with higher environmental tolerances have greater survivability rates through temperature anomalies. Palythoa caribaeorum is an encrusting colonial anemone with the ability to overgrow and outcompete neighboring benthic species, such as corals and sponges. Species-distribution models (SDMs) are an effective way to predict suitable habitats based on occurrence data and environmental variables. This study aimed to plot and identify the distribution of P. caribaeorum along Florida’s coast and project its distribution in the year 2100 based on climatic models. I predict that P. caribaeorum will maintain its distribution under increasing RCP levels because of its overall tolerance to changing environmental parameters.
Advisor
Richard Aronson
Publication Date
4-25-2025
Recommended Citation
Smith, Summer R., "Climate Change and the Biogeography of a Critical Component of Coral Reefs" (2025). Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences Student Publications. 77.
https://repository.fit.edu/oems_student/77