All articles tagged with #coral conservation
Two key coral species in Florida, elkhorn and staghorn, have been declared 'functionally extinct' due to a severe 2023 marine heat wave caused by climate change, leading to near-total mortality and significant ecological impacts on reef ecosystems and coastal protection.
A 127-foot yacht is being transformed into an artificial reef in St. Lucie County as part of an initiative to replenish rare coral species. The project aims to create a stronger and healthier reef ecosystem, combatting the harmful effects of UV rays and rising temperatures. The sinking of the yacht will provide shade, reduce ocean floor temperatures, and offer researchers an opportunity to study environmental and man-made impacts on corals. The reef will be named the A.A. Hendry Reef and is expected to attract the white oculina coral, which is unique to St. Lucie County. The initiative aims to repopulate the oculina coral and promote a sustainable and healthier ecosystem for future generations.