We’ve just wrapped up our 2024 expedition—marking 8 years of dedicated coral reef monitoring in the central #Maldives! This season, we revisited our long-term survey sites to collect essential benthic and fish community data, helping us track changes over time.
One highlight? A photo comparison between 2022 and 2024 that reveals striking patterns of reef recovery—and in some areas, ongoing degradation. These time-series visuals are powerful reminders of both coral resilience and vulnerability in a changing climate.
Our work builds on earlier studies, including a 2019 analysis that showed how the 2016 mass bleaching event dramatically altered coral populations in the region. Back then, fast-growing Acropora species were nearly wiped out, while massive Porites proved more resistant but still showed structural shifts.
Fast forward to today, and we’re starting to see early signs of change—both hopeful and concerning. Stay tuned as we analyze this season’s data and share insights into how these vital ecosystems are responding nearly a decade after that pivotal event.
Check out the 2019 paper for more insights.