The Influence of Thematic and Spatial Resolution on Maps of a Coral Reef Ecosystem

Abstract

Four maps of a reef ecosystem were created using two levels of both spatial and thematic resolution commonly used in science and management applications. Differences among maps were quantified using ecologically meaningful landscape indices. The objective was to inform research and management activities that are based on maps of reef ecosystems. Results indicate that inferences regarding the structure and organization of reef ecosystems are sensitive to changes in resolution of the maps characterizing them. Hard bottom, sand, and patchy features were the most sensitive to change in map resolution whereas continuous seagrass beds and linear reef features were not.

Keywords:

• Benthic mapping
• coastal management
• landscape ecology
• resampling

Acknowledgement

This is contribution No. 4148 of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. We deeply appreciate the contributions of the following: Ken Buja for assistance with GIS; Charles Menza for statistical programming; Curtis Kruer for training in photo-interpretation; Robert Gardner, David Eggleston, and Simon Pittman for guidance on draft manuscripts; Kimberly Woody and Philippe Mayor for assistance during field work; NOAA, Mark Monaco, Russell Callender, and Zandy Hillis-Starr for financial, logistical, and professional support.