Coral distribution and diversity in Sakiyamawan–Amitoriwan nature conservation area of Iriomote Island in Japan

A comparative analysis of coral distribution and diversity between Sakiyama Bay and Amitori Bay on Iriomote Island, Japan, reveals significant differences influenced by soil inflow and geographical characteristics. While Amitori Bay exhibits maximum coral diversity in its intermediate part, aligning with the Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis (IDH), Sakiyama Bay shows peak diversity at its reef edge, deviating from IDH predictions. Tabular and branching corals dominate Amitori Bay's mouth and inner parts, respectively, whereas branching and massive corals prevail in Sakiyama Bay's reef edge and coastal sides. These findings underscore the critical role of environmental factors in shaping coral community structure.

Shimokawa, S., Murakami, T., & Kohno, H. (2023). Coral distribution and diversity in Sakiyamawan–Amitoriwan nature conservation area of Iriomote Island in Japan. Geoscience Letters, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40562-023-00263-0