RADReef: A global Holocene Reef Rate of Accretion Dataset

Area of Science:

• Marine Geology
• Paleoclimatology
• Coral Reef Ecology

Background:

• Coral reefs are vital ecosystems threatened by rising sea levels.
• Understanding reef accretion rates is crucial for predicting their survival.
• Past reef growth patterns offer insights into responses to environmental change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a global dataset of dated Holocene reef cores (RADReef).
• To enable research into global patterns and drivers of reef accretion.
• To provide a foundation for predicting future reef resilience to sea level rise.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing radiometric dating of reef cores to determine vertical accretion rates.
• Compiling historical reef accretion data from existing literature.
• Developing a global database of dated Holocene reef cores.

Main Results:

• RADReef is a comprehensive global dataset of dated Holocene reef cores.
• The dataset facilitates the analysis of local and regional factors influencing reef growth.
• It highlights the need for global-scale analysis of reef accretion drivers.

Conclusions:

• Past reef accretion rates provide critical data for understanding reef survival.
• The RADReef dataset is essential for future research on reef resilience.
• Predicting reef accretion capacity is key to addressing future sea level rise challenges.