Remote Sensing Assessment of Ocean Acidification Stressors on Mesoamerican Reef Coral Ecosystems Naydeline Teresita Smith(a*), Po-Chun Hsu(b)
a)Center for Space and Remote Sensing Research, National Central University, Taiwan
Abstract
Anthropogenic CO₂- uptake is driving ocean acidification, with profound implications for the carbonate chemistry of coral reefs and their ecosystem resilience. This study leverages Copernicus Level 4 satellite datasets of carbon flux variables, including fugacity of CO₂- (fgCO₂-), partial pressure of CO₂- (spCO₂-), surface pH, and total alkalinity, to systematically assess the spatial and seasonal variability of acidification stress across the Mesoamerican Reef region (89.5-85.5 -W, 15.5-22 -N). Our decadal analysis reveals distinct seasonal acidification peaks, characterized by elevated fgCO₂- and spCO₂-, along with reduced pH and alkalinity, which are concentrated in southern reefs (16-17N) from February to June and shift northward (17-22 -N) from July to September. The period from October to January represents the least acidified season. These acidification hotspots coincide with intensified circulation zones, suggesting enhanced biogeochemical cycling directly mediated by physical transport processes. The findings highlight well-defined spatiotemporal windows of carbonate chemistry stress that are critical for anticipating coral bleaching and reduced calcification. By isolating acidification dynamics from temperature-driven influences, this study contributes to a targeted framework for remote sensing of coral reefs. Aligned with SDG 14 (Life Below Water), these insights support ecosystem-based management and climate-adaptive strategies aimed at preserving reef biodiversity and sustaining the livelihoods of coastal communities.
