Coral reefs are incredibly diverse ecosystems, and scuba diving provides an up-close look at their beauty. But coral reefs are also extremely delicate and must be protected from stressors like pollution, overfishing, and climate change in order to remain healthy. If the coral dies off, the entire reef ecosystem falls apart and will not return on its own—scientists estimate that it would take 6,000 years to naturally recover! In honor of World Oceans Day on June 8th, here’s how scuba diving helps coral reef restoration efforts around the world.
What is Coral Reef Restoration?
Coral reef restoration is a branch of ecological engineering, as it focuses on one species: coral. Coral reefs are sensitive to changes in their environment, and they face many threats today, including pollution and warming waters. One of these threats is called bleaching — when water gets too warm, corals expel their photosynthetic algae (known as zooxanthellae) in a process called coral bleaching. Thus they turn white and lose their bright colors. If conditions do not improve, coral can die if they go without zooxanthellae for too long. There are a variety of ways to restore coral, but if you’re interested in going underwater to see first-hand how coral grows and recuperates itself after such catastrophic events, check out our advice below.
Why Restore Coral Reefs?
Coral reefs provide a habitat for thousands of species. Unfortunately, their numbers are dwindling. The problem? Coral reef restoration is expensive, and reef restoration takes time—several decades in some cases. But there’s another way to help coral reefs… one that doesn’t require costly construction or years of waiting: You can visit them as scuba divers! By visiting coral reefs and practicing responsible diving techniques, you can help protect these natural wonders for years to come.The International Union for Conservation of Nature estimates that 24% of coral reefs and 32% of reef-building corals are threatened with extinction. Luckily, there are people out there, like our team of Aquatic Super Hero’s, who devote their time to helping these beautiful ecosystems. Here are a few tips on how you can help. It may be hard work, but it’s work well worth doing! While coral reefs are beautiful from above water, it’s only when we observe them under water that we get an idea of just how intricate they really are. Below sea level, marine creatures have developed relationships with each other that rival those of any land ecosystem.
JOIN US!!! In helping with these Ecological Efforts.
