Effects of Nitrate/Nitrites on coral bleaching: Coral Reef health around the Hawaiian Islands

Abstract

This study involved collecting images and water samples from various locations around Hawaii’s main islands. Images were collected around the Big Island (Hawaii) and Molokini Crater for visual comparison of coral health. Water samples were collected to measure nitrogen levels from various locations including some freshwater samples taken from Oahu. Data from images and water samples were then compared to determine overall coral health.Results of this study showed that nitrogen levels were low in all saltwater locations, and corals had a low percentage of bleaching.