A review of effects of super typhoons on coral reef ecosystems: Problem and strategy

Abstract

A typhoon is one of environmental factors to affect coral reef ecosystems. Winds and ocean wave (wind wave and swell) induced by typhoons generates various effects of mechanical destruction (dislodgement, overturned, breakage), sedimentation, change in reef topography, and sea-water cooling. Sediment and nutrients discharges induced by heavy rainfall have impacts on benthic organisms. Some climate models project that typhoons and the corresponding maximum wind velocity and precipitation will become more intense (i.e., super typhoon) with time. Future reef ecosystems are thus expected to be more affected by the super typhoons. In this paper, we describe the effects of typhoons on coral reef ecosystems and summarize the aim of the research. In addition, we review the latest studies of effects of super typhoons on coral reef ecosystems and give guidance to further studies.