Great Barrier Reef Restoration: A New Era of Coral Comeback
Tens of thousands of young corals are being transplanted onto the Great Barrier Reef as part of a groundbreaking restoration effort. Scientists at the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) are testing methods to accelerate coral recovery on degraded reefs, marking the first time such function is being evaluated on a large scale.
Scaling Up Reef Revival: The Pilot Deployments Program
The Pilot Deployments Program (PDP), a three-year initiative, has already seen 44,608 seeding devices deployed across reefs off Cairns and in the Keppel Islands. Each device can house up to 10 young corals. This represents a significant increase in the scale of reef restoration research.
The coral seeding device protects the baby coral when it’s dropped onto the Great Barrier Reef. (Supplied: Australian Institute of Marine Science/Marie Roman)
Industry and Indigenous Collaboration: A Holistic Approach
The restoration isn’t solely a scientific endeavor. AIMS is actively training tourism operators, traditional owners, and coral aquarists in reef restoration techniques. This collaborative approach aims to build capacity for large-scale upscaling in the coming years. Last November, Indigenous Rangers from eight Traditional Owner groups received advanced training in the Keppel Islands.
Beyond Transplantation: Harnessing Natural Spawning
The program utilizes two key methods: direct transplantation of aquaculture-reared corals and the collection and release of wild coral spawn. Companies like Cairns Reef Fishing are setting up floating pools to capture naturally spawned coral, which is then settled onto seeding devices. This leverages the natural reproductive power of the reef.
Scientists place pools in the ocean to collect wild coral spawn slicks. (Supplied: Great Barrier Reef Foundation)
The Role of Coral Genetics and Aquaculture
Coral wholesalers, such as Monsoon Aquatics, are growing corals in land-based facilities before transplanting them. The goal is to introduce corals with genetics that enhance resilience to climate change, allowing them to thrive and pass on these traits through spawning.
Looking Ahead: Industry-Led Restoration
There’s a growing expectation that reef restoration will eventually be led by industry. Some businesses are already considering integrating marine biologist roles into their teams. This shift reflects a commitment to long-term reef health and sustainability.
Traditional Owner Stewardship
For the Woppaburra people, traditional owners of the Keppel Bay Island National Park, reef restoration is about reclaiming stewardship of their sea Country. Combining cultural knowledge with scientific insights is seen as crucial for effective conservation.
FAQ: Great Barrier Reef Restoration
- What is a seeding device? A triangle-shaped structure used to protect young corals as they settle onto the reef.
- Who is involved in the Pilot Deployments Program? AIMS, CSIRO, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, four Queensland universities, tourism operators, and Indigenous rangers.
- What are the two main restoration methods being used? Aquaculture-based transplantation and the collection/release of wild coral spawn.
Pro Tip: Supporting sustainable tourism operators who actively participate in reef restoration efforts is a great way to contribute to the health of the Great Barrier Reef.
Explore more about the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program here.
