New Caledonia surface lagoon chlorophyll modeling as coastal reef area health indicator

A novel 3D coupled physical-biogeochemical model (ECO3M_LAGOON and MARS3D) successfully predicts eutrophication events in New Caledonia's UNESCO-listed lagoon, a critical indicator of reef health. The model integrates nitrogen and carbon cycles, microbial loop dynamics, and environmental variables like tides, wind, light, temperature, and freshwater inputs to simulate phytoplankton biomass, bacterial production, dissolved organic matter, and nutrient recycling. Validated against in situ (ValHyBio 2008) and satellite data (MODIS/MERIS), it reveals spatial-temporal interactions between water motion and biology across the lagoon's complex barrier reef and ocean-lagoon interface. This approach offers a robust tool for monitoring and preserving the biodiversity of this oligotrophic, semi-enclosed tropical ecosystem.

Fuchs, R., Pinazo, C., Douillet, P., Dupouy, C., Faure, V., & Mangin, A. (2010). New Caledonia surface lagoon chlorophyll modeling as coastal reef area health indicator. Remote Sensing of the Coastal Ocean, Land, and Atmosphere Environment, 7858, 78580Z. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.870736