Earthquakes and emergence or submergence of coral reefs

Abstract

Methods to document and measure coral reef emergence and submergence are now well developed and comprise an important contribution to the understanding of earthquake rupture and the subduction process. Coral micro atolls record the details of both uplift and subsidence over recent centuries or even millennia. Space-based GPS and radar methods have greatly improved the temporal resolution of measurements and can measure horizontal strain as well as vertical motions. With numerous scientists aware of the scientific value of coseismically emerged and submerged coral reefs, it is likely that most future large events will be measured adequately. Smaller ones are not likely to be recognized and investigated unless they occur in an area that is easily accessible or are located in an area of particular scientific interest where GPS survey marks already exist.