USGS Pacific Coral Reefs Website

Welcome to the USGS Pacific Coral Reefs Website

Explore the fascinating undersea world of coral reefs. Learn how we map, monitor and model coral reefs so we can better understand, protect and preserve our Nation's reefs.

Coral reefs are unique ecosystems of plants, animals, and their associated geological framework. The ocean equivalent of rainforests, they are home to 25% of all marine species, yet it is estimated that many of the world's reefs will be destroyed or significantly damaged in the next 20 years.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), working closely with academic institutions, state, and other Federal agencies, is spearheading an effort to better understand the processes that affect the health and sustainability of our Nation's reefs.

This web site is a gateway to USGS studies of coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean. Currently our efforts are concentrated in the main Hawaiian Islands and on the island of Guam. We focus on mapping, monitoring, remote sensing, sediment transport studies, and collection of tide, wave, and current data from remote stations. From this work we are gaining new insight into the structure of coral reefs, providing the basis for future monitoring, and understanding better both the influences of natural processes and impacts of human activities on coral reef health. These efforts will help to preserve and protect the biodiversity, health, and social and economic value of these remarkable habitats.

To learn more about our efforts, use the links below or to the left.

To learn about other USGS coral reef studies in Florida and U.S. Caribbean islands go to http://coastal.er.usgs.gov/.