Nearshore circulation in a tropical fringing reef system

Wave breaking is the dominant force driving circulation in Ningaloo Reef's fringing system, overwhelming tidal and wind influences. A six-week field study revealed that wave-driven currents shape cross-reef and alongshore flows, with flushing times ranging from hours to days depending on wave conditions. Tides modulate high-frequency current variability but play a secondary role compared to waves. The findings suggest Ningaloo Reef's circulation is highly sensitive to sea level rise, with potential impacts on its ecological dynamics.

Taebi, S., Lowe, R. J., Pattiaratchi, C. B., Ivey, G. N., Symonds, G., & Brinkman, R. (2011). Nearshore circulation in a tropical fringing reef system. Journal of Geophysical Research, 116(C2). https://doi.org/10.1029/2010jc006439