Coupling Biological and Physical Processes Responsible for Retention of Coral Reef Fish Larvae

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9521104 COWEN It is widely appreciated that coral reef fish larvae are transported to reef habitats by ocean currents. However, little is known about the behaviors that larval fishes perform to ensure their return to adult habitats. This study will employ an interdisciplinary approach to examine how circulation patterns influence retention and recruitment. Specifically, three- dimensional surveys of larval fish distributions, periodic monitoring of recruitment and detailed measurements of the water flow regime will be conducted in the vicinity of an isolated island (Barbados). Larval fishes will be collected with MOCNESS net tows. Local flow and water column structure will be mapped with ADCP, CTD, current meters and satellite imagery. Data from these tows and instruments will provide a basis for understanding linkages between the intra- and interannual variability of local flow, as well as relationships to the frequency and duration of mesoscale events. ***