Hawaii Atlantis model input files calibrated for testing CMIP6 climate scenarios

The files described here are the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) Atlantis Ecosystem model input files used in for testing CMIP6 climate scenarios developed by main Hawaiian Islands ROMS. These input files were used to run forecast simulations under three different CMIP6 climate change scenarios: low-emission (SSP1-2.6), moderate-emission (SSP2-4.5), and high-emission (SSP3-7.0). The parameter files include a run file, biological parameters, forcing parameters (list climate and pollution forcing files), harvest parameters (fishing mortality), and physics parameters. Files included are parameter (.prm), initial conditions (.nc), and land-based source pollutants (LBSP) forcing files. In recalibrating the current model based on updated climate forcing files (ROMS projections), the parameter and initial conditions files have been adjusted since initial model development. The ROMS projections used to force Hawaii Atlantis are not included in this data set, as they are from a different project.

Hawaii Atlantis was initially developed at PIFSC and further details regarding the model, as well as outputs of a model run based on older inputs, are hosted as InPort catalog item 55245. The LBSP forcing files hosted here were developed based on Ocean Tipping Points project data as part of initial model development

The purpose of this modeling effort is to address the pressing need for a comprehensive understanding of the ecological and socio-economic impacts of climate change on coral reef ecosystems in Hawaii. Given the compounding challenges faced by these ecosystems (e.g., ocean acidification, rising temperatures, fishing activity, and pollution), there is a need to assess their vulnerability and resilience to inform management. By integrating high-resolution climate scenarios downscaled for the main Hawaiian Islands, species interactions, fishing impacts, and land-based pollution in a spatially-explicit ecosystem model, this modeling effort projects how coral reef ecosystems may evolve over time. Through scenario analyses, the research seeks to identify potential shifts in ecosystem dynamics, such as changes in coral cover and fish assemblages, and assess spatial variations in vulnerability. By providing insights into the impacts of climate change on coral reef ecosystems, this research aims to inform effective management strategies and enhance the resilience of these vital ecosystems in Hawaii.

Created by Lansing Perng 04/02/24.

IRC