The Need for Coral Restoration

Corals are amazing animals belonging to a group of invertebrates called Cnidaria.  Corals provide an important ecosystem for life underwater, they protect coastal areas and help provide income to millions of people. through tourism.  Unfortunately the reefs are facing numerous challenges.  The reefs cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support about 25% of marine life.  Coral disease, pollution and climate change  are killing our reefs.

Their are many organizations that are trying to combat the decline of the coral reefs. We have become involved in an organization called I.CARE which focuses their efforts on restoring Islamorada's coral reefs.  I.CARE has partnered with Mote Marine Laboratory to work together in order to transplant healthy coral colonies, grown in nurseries, onto the reef.  95% of these transplanted corals have been withstanding current climate change and weather conditions..  Allowing our reefs to grow.

Below are some Photos of our dives transplanting  and securing coral  on Alligator Reef in Islamorada, FL. For information on how you can get involved, please visit www.icareaboutcoral.org

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

1. Participate in a beach or dive clean-up to remove marine debris from our shores and reefs.

2.  Join in for a hands-on coral restoration dive

3.  Spread awareness and education by tagging us in your clean-up and environmental photos