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Degree

Master of Arts (MA), Ohio University, Geography (Arts and Sciences), 2007.

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between human terrestrial development within Roatan’s watersheds and their associated coral reef habitat adjacent to shore through the use of remote sensing and in situ coral surveying methods. Two satellite images are used to determine the amount of change from vegetated to urban land cover between 1985 and 2001. Reef locations were randomly selected and evaluated by recording coral condition data utilizing SCUBA techniques. The land cover change and coral condition data are then combined utilizing GIS methods to produce a spatial risk map identifying threatened reef areas.

Results indicate that human development is expanding on the island, changing the landscape and its interactions with the marine environment. The results provide a way to determine terrestrial development’s impact on coral reef condition. Additionally, it provides a flexible tool which conservationists and stakeholders can use to help manage this key resource.

Subject Headings

Geography

Keywords

Honduras; coral reef; land cover; coastal management

Advisor

Jeffrey S. Ueland

Pages

120p.

Document number: ohiou1179954979
Permalink: http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1179954979

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