Applying replicable open-source workflows to identify invasive flora: Spathodea campanulata in a small-scale forest plot in Korotari, Fiji

Rising ocean temperatures cause severe heatwaves that threaten Pacific coral reefs and coastal communities. To help protect these habitats, researchers combined ocean temperature data, satellite imagery, and local field surveys from Fiji and Tonga following a major heatwave in January 2026. This approach successfully detected and mapped bleached reef areas. Combining satellite tracking with local knowledge creates a foundation for early warning systems, enabling timely protection efforts.