The four basic steps followed in systematic selection of MPAs can be easily adapted to apply specifically to coral reefs. These steps include the following:

Data Collection: Finding reefs that are resistant or resilient to the effects of bleaching.
more information >>

Data Analysis: Analyzing resistant/resilient sites in terms of connectivity and other factors such as resources, human activity, and threats to resources. more information >>

Data Synthesis: Synthesizing information from the first two steps in order to prioritize the most likely candidates for protection. more information >>

Applying Criteria: Consideration of sites that emerge from the first three steps in terms of basic MPA goals and national priorities.
more information >>