Datalogging instrument arrays: Powerful yet inexpensive tools for recording the heterogeneous physical environment of coral reefs

Abstract

The physical structure of coral reefs, like that of rainforests and other spatially-complex ecosystems, modulates light, fluid flow, and other physical variables to create a spatially and temporally complex mosaic of microhabitats. Accurate and affordable methods for quantifying this spatio-temporal variation are required to address many basic and applied research questions related to the ecology and management of reefs. Recent advances in semiconductor electronics technology have made it easier and much less expensive to build small and reliable datalogging instruments, which can be deployed in arrays to record spatio-temporal patterns of ecologically-important variables. Suitable instruments are already commercially available for $100 (US) or less per unit, and more are being produced. Moreover, people with modest electronics training and equipment can now design and build their own instruments successfully using the powerful features and modularity of modern “off-the-shelf” integrated circuits. Commercial instruments, as well as all of the parts necessary to construct custom-made instruments, can be ordered by telephone or internet and shipped worldwide. Thus, these technologies are now available for reef research and monitoring in remote regions, including the many developing island nations whose people depend on healthy reefs for healthy economies.