Fiji's cyclone-ravaged coral reefs show "remarkable recovery"
Following the devastation of Category 5 Cyclone Winston in 2016, scientists have discovered a remarkable recovery among Fiji’s barrier reefs. A collaborative study by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the University of the South Pacific, and international partners found that coral reefs—some of which lost up to 91% of their hard coral cover—have significantly rebounded. Monitoring 18 reef sites over eight years revealed that by 2020, coral communities had nearly returned to their pre-cyclone conditions, showcasing the reefs’ resilience and ability to recover from extreme disturbance.
Dr. Amanda Ford and her team from the University of the South Pacific found that even after severe damage, coral reefs can recover if local conditions are favorable. Through long-term monitoring and wave modeling, the study showed a strong link between cyclone intensity and coral loss, yet all sites demonstrated substantial recovery within four years. The research highlights the importance of healthy ecosystems, strong fish populations, and larval connectivity in reef resilience. These findings are vital for Fiji’s developing National Action Plan for Coral Reef Conservation, emphasizing that community involvement and local ecosystem health are key to helping reefs withstand future climate impacts.
The Fiji National Hub for Coral Reef Conservation—a coalition of government agencies, scientists, NGOs, and local leaders—is leading efforts to safeguard the nation’s coral reefs through coordinated, science-based action. According to WCS Fiji Director Paul van Nimwegen, research like this guide effective conservation investments and strengthens partnerships for reef resilience. Supported by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the initiative prioritizes ecosystem-based management and community collaboration. Globally, the study offers hope, showing that reefs with strong ecological foundations can recover from major climate shocks—a reminder, as WCS’s Dr. Stacy Jupiter notes, of the urgent need to protect reefs that still have a fighting chance. To learn more head over to Rob Hutchins’ article Fiji's cyclone-ravaged coral reefs show "remarkable recovery" - Oceanographic