The problem is that our coral reefs are dying. Increasing water temperatures and ocean acidification are the subordinates and climate change is the master culprit. Corals, unknown to many, are animals. Together, coral reefs create a vibrant ecosystem that is vital to ocean survival. Like any other ecosystem, each organism depends on another, creating an interdependent system that in this case- depends heavily on corals. Coral reefs are home to about 25% of all marine life and play a crucial role in forming a protective barrier against storms and waves at the shoreline. Because they house so much marine life, they also ensure that fishermen get fish. Currently, coral reefs are dying quickly and it is vital to the ocean system that we save them.
Image by ‘ReefWatch’
The solution lies in restoring and regenerating the reefs.
Who has taken on this responsibility? There are many organizations worldwide working to save the reefs. One such organization- Reef Watch, an Indian NGO based in the Andaman Islands, has been working tirelessly on marine conservation since 1993.
Image by ‘ReefWatch’
How will we save our coral reefs? Reef Watch aims to restore and regenerate coral reefs using a one of a kind mineral accretion technology. Reef Watch starts by rescuing naturally broken coral fragments and reattaches them to a robust substratum, usually a metal structure. This does two things: by securing these fragments to a stationary structure, coral survival rates increase, leading to the possibility of growing into an artificial reef. It also allows Reef Watch to add in their mineral accretion technology, a form of electrolysis. A mild electric current is generated through a solar source, passing through iron frameworks that sparks quick accretion of calcium carbonate, in turn helping the reef grow 7 to 12 times faster than normal. The coral not only grows faster, it also develops a higher energy budget that it can use to survive in inevitable warmer water temperatures, evading various types of coral disease. Who knew an electric shock could lead to resilient corals?
Image by ‘ReefWatch’
What can you do to help? Coral conservation is not only Reef Watch’s problem- it’s ours too. Reef Watch is just one phenomenal organization working to restore our corals, but they could always do with a little more help. Time and money are two vital resources for change, so if you have either, try donating or volunteering with Reef Watch and help make a difference to save our oceans.
Image by ‘ReefWatch’
