Which monitoring tool is NOT typically used in coral restoration research?

In coral restoration research, various monitoring tools are employed to assess the health and progress of coral reefs. Remote sensing, underwater cameras, and ecological surveys play crucial roles in collecting data about coral conditions, populations, and environmental factors.

Remote sensing is utilized to gather information over large areas, allowing researchers to monitor changes in coral cover and health from space or aerial imagery. Underwater cameras provide valuable visual documentation and can help track the growth and behavior of coral and associated marine life. Ecological surveys offer in-depth assessments of the biodiversity within reef ecosystems, focusing on species interactions and health.

Satellite phones, while useful for communication in remote research areas, do not directly contribute to the scientific analysis or monitoring of coral restoration efforts. They facilitate logistics and coordination but do not provide the data needed for assessing the ecological state of corals. Thus, they are not considered a monitoring tool in the context of coral restoration research.