CARIBBEAN CORAL RESTORATION CENTER

Description

As Coral Restoration Practitioners we are identifying as many genotypes of several endangered coral species as possible and bringing samples of each of the resilient colony types into in-situ nurseries where we can generate large populations that are in close enough proximity to exchange genos through natural reproduction. Concurrently, we are using artificial reef structures as a nearby substrate where coral larva can attach and grow. Our goal is to have a solid seed-bank of adaptable coral that can ultimately be used to reestablish reefs as the technology to utilize broadcast breeding and distribution of larva is perfected.
The underlying foundation is the establishment of a sustainable relationship with the sea and the regional people who inhabit these islands. To help achieve that goal, we directly involve the community by using a local labor force that helps to create structures for fish-friendly marine environments. In addition to providing a direct benefit and a sense of achievement, they become crusaders because they directly experience the difference that adequate habitat and responsible management can achieve.
Additionally, we encourage on-site tours and hands-on educational field trips to expose the possibilities of a thriving future to the community at large.

We want to enlarge our Proof of Concept artificial reef habitat sites and establish MPAs around each one thereby allowing fisheries generation and sustainable harvesting between reef stations.