Abstract
Coral reefs are critical components in protecting coastlines from erosion, natural disasters such as cyclonic storms, and providing food and resources for humans and marine life. This thesis aims to draw attention to important components of these reefs, particularly spur and groove (SAG) formations. Spur and groove formations are distinctive features of coral reefs that form in response to wave energy and are composed of parallel ridges (spurs) and channels (grooves). Tropical climates experience a higher frequency and intensity of cyclonic storms that produce harsh conditions that can diminish reef composure. Cyclonic storms were analyzed and used to cross-reference locations in order to determine reef spur and groove formations that experience the abrasive nature of these storms. Using satellite image-based data allows for the comparative geomorphometry of coral reef spur and groove formations, from locations around the world and through years of historical imagery data. In this thesis, the shape and evolution of these formations using geomorphometric studies is explored, providing a perspective on their variability according to reef type and geographic location. Notably, these formations are essential for protecting coasts and dissipating wave energy, which emphasizes the necessity of conservation efforts and further research in this area.