Blog
Photo by Ryan Pernofski
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Coral Reefs in a Changing Climate: Expanding to the Coral Triangle
Coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, providing critical habitat for countless species of fish, invertebrates, and other marine life. Unfortunately, coral reefs are also highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and more frequent and intense storms. This has led to a…
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The Vital Role of Lobsters and Conchs in Reef Ecosystems
Corals often steal the spotlight for being visually stunning while also playing a critical role in maintaining the balance of our oceans. But there are other fascinating creatures that also significantly support the vitality of the underwater wonderland. Among them, lobsters and conchs stand out as key players. Why Lobsters and Conchs? Lobsters are found…
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Curbing the Spread of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease in the Honduran Bay Islands
Reef-building corals have faced unprecedented damage over the past century, primarily due to increasing human pressure on coral communities. One of the most devastating challenges faced by Caribbean corals is the outbreak of stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD), which was first detected in Florida in 2014. Since then, it has rapidly spread to 26…
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This Plastic Free July, Consider the Coral Reefs
Each year, Plastic Free July spurs consumers to consider their plastic consumption and move toward change. It’s a great cause and an important step—but this year, let’s take it even further and consider moving away from single-use plastic altogether. When plastic makes its way to the ocean, it also finds a home in coral reefs,…
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The Mysteries of “Misbehaving” Coral Reefs
Hold on to your scuba masks because we’ve got some wild news for you—coral reefs are misbehaving! That’s right, underwater communities are breaking all the rules and thriving in unexpected conditions. Our field teams are studying these reefs across the globe—from Tela Bay, Honduras to Hilo, Hawaii. Maybe they’re onto something. Could these misbehaving coral…
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The Vital Link: Why Water Quality Matters for Coral Reefs
Coral reefs, the vibrant and diverse underwater ecosystems, are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also vital for the health of our oceans. These magnificent structures teem with life, providing habitats for countless marine species. However, their survival is intrinsically tied to one crucial factor: water quality. Let’s explore the dynamic connection between water quality and…
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![Marine Water Quality Protocol Now Available for Mesoamerican Reef System [Comprehensive Guide]](https://static.coral.org/uploads/2023/06/WC-Protocol-Cover.jpg)
Marine Water Quality Protocol Now Available for Mesoamerican Reef System [Comprehensive Guide]
CORAL has reached a major milestone and is excited to release the Protocol Handbook for Monitoring Marine Water Quality in the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) System. What exactly is the Protocol Handbook? The first of its kind, this coordinated water quality sampling project is a giant leap forward in giving water quality monitoring the spotlight it…
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What is Coral Restoration, and Can it Save Coral Reefs?
Can coral restoration save coral reefs? We hear this question a lot at the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL). It’s a good question and a complex one. Let’s dive deeper into the nuances of restoration. What is coral restoration? Coral restoration refers to a set of conservation techniques aimed at helping degraded coral reefs recover by…
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The Dynamic Connection Between Sea Turtles and Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth, providing a habitat for countless marine species. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and vitality of coral reefs is the sea turtle. Through their feeding habits and behaviors, sea turtles have developed a remarkable symbiotic relationship with coral reefs. Let’s…