The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has added three new higher warning levels to their coral reef warning system due to record-setting temperatures, indicating an "unimaginable" level of coral mortality. Coral bleaching, caused by excessive heat, is becoming more pervasive and severe, threatening marine life and human survival. Human-induced global heating is exacerbating the issue, prompting the need for immediate action to reduce pollution and protect the oceans. Organizations like Coral Gardeners are working to combat coral bleaching and restore reefs.
Dr. Timothy Lamont and his team at Lancaster University found that planting corals on sand-coated steel frames brought a completely dead reef back to life in just four years, as part of the MARS Coral Reef Restoration Program in Indonesia. The program stabilized rubble fields with sand-coated steel structures called Reef Stars, allowing coral larvae to grow and thrive. While the restored reef showed positive growth, questions remain about the sacrifice of biodiversity for faster-growing coral species.
Researchers have found that playing recordings of healthy coral reef sounds through underwater speakers can attract coral larvae to struggling reefs, potentially aiding in their recovery. The study, conducted off the US Virgin Islands, showed that coral larvae were up to seven times more likely to settle at reefs where the sounds were played. While the results are promising, further research is needed to understand the long-term effects and ensure the survival and growth of the settled corals. This innovative approach offers hope for the restoration of damaged and degraded reefs in the face of significant threats such as global heating, overfishing, and pollution.
A volunteer seaweed removal program led by James Cook University and the Australian Institute of Marine Science has resulted in significant coral regrowth of up to 600% off the coast of Magnetic Island. The program, which involves citizen scientists manually removing macroalgae from experimental plots, has shown promising results in rejuvenating corals and increasing coral diversity. The method could be implemented easily by reef managers with limited resources, making it accessible for developing countries. The success of the project has prompted plans to expand to other locations and encourages individuals to take action to save coral reefs.
