After seeing the new elkhorn coral growth on our last dive at Sand Key, we are interested in seeing if there is additional growth on this reef.

This monitoring transect is identified as Rock Key Buoy 14 (RKB14) and passes through the shallow palmata zone of the reef . From the northwest section of the reef we will snorkel eastward in order to enter into the shallow palmata zone. One of the first observations we make is to visually gauge the amount of algae that is growing on the rubble adjacent to the reef crest near the buoy. This area is comprised of loose coral rocks that move around with each passing storm. There are a few living species of soft and hard corals scattered about. The algae growing on the bottom reflects the amount of nutrients that are present in the water column passing over the reef. The bottom appears to have a normal amount of algal turf growing and is not smothered by a massive algae bloom. This is good. Snorkeling in the extreme shallows on any coral reef is not recommended for novices. Coral growth can easily be damaged by the fins of snorkelers, so great care must be taken to float through these areas and not 'power fin' through them. Monitoring at this site is done only on calm days during high tides.

Sand Key
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