Approximately 1000 photographs are taken of a 10 x 10 meter area and combined to form a single image which is then used to characterize, quantitatively, the coral community structure of that location. This data is collected along with primary biogeographical parameters in an effort to complete their goal to record the health status of reefs all across the globe and monitor their health. 

 

Ten of these primary biogeophysical parameters are 

1. Biodiversity

2. Sea Surface Temperature 

3. Photosynthetically available radiation

4. Aragonite Saturation State

5. Significant wave height 

6. Coastal Development Threat Level

7. Marine Pollution Threat Level 

8. Overfishing Threat Level 

9. Watershed Pollution Threat Level 

   10.Integrated Local Threat Level