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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
NSU Research Spotlight: Coral Reef Conservation
Sam Purkis, Ph.D.
Sam Purkis, Ph.D., Professor at NSU’s Oceanographic Center, is passionate about his work on coral reef conservation. “Our coral reefs are fragile and degrading,” says Sam Purkis. “As one of the first ecosystems to collapse, they serve as a forewarning to the rest of our environment.”
He leads a team which conducts large scale mapping via satellites. By the use of remote sensing, a map is produced to demonstrate not only where coral reefs are located, but also what condition they are in.
He and his research team then present their database findings to the countries that govern these reefs. Working with these countries and non-government organizations, the goal is survival of the reefs. “We hope to set a precedent to protect coral reefs and other marine species,” says Purkis. “Ideally we want the worldwide establishment of marine protected areas.”
While NSU provides Sam and his team with a base of operations when not out conducting research, he explains, “We rely on the generosity of sponsors and non-governmental agencies to continue our work. Funding increases and validates the work that we do, and aids the conservation of the reefs.”
“It’s important to understand how critical our coral reef ecosystems are,” Purkis concludes. “We rely on them more than we appreciate. They’re very beautiful, but they are in great danger.”