Detecting changes in the physical ocean environment, such as sea temperatures , is important in identifying the envelope of environmental conditions preferred by corals and the particular sets of conditions which cause them to stress and die.

When we have a history of climate conditions on the reef and understand the variety and complexity of coral responses to stressful conditions, we can make predictions about what the effects of climate change might be on the reef.

Monitoring environmental conditions also allows us to provide early warning for bleaching events, which helps reef managers deal better with demands for accurate and timely information and scientists to plan and organise their field programs.

AIMS employs sophisticated systems for monitoring the environmental conditions on Australia's tropical marine ecosystems.

High tech equipment designed and built at AIMS allows researchers to measure the respiration rate of corals in their natural environment.