A fundamental objective of ecology is to evaluate the conditions that permit
\ndifferent species to survive and reproduce, that is, to identify each species’ ‘niche’.
\nThe overarching aim of this thesis was to identify and quantify the primary processes
\nthat influence the distribution and abundance of reef-building, scleractinian corals.
\nMy general approach was to develop and calibrate process-based models that link
\nphysiology to environmental conditions, and quantify ecological performa…