Corals for Climate: Restoring Resilient Reefs

The temperature is dropping, the waves are getting bigger, and diving conditions are becoming more extreme. There is only one explanation for all of this: winter. With winter, corals get a reset and a breather; finally, the bleaching stress subsides, and color slowly starts to reappear on the reef. Winter is challenging for divers in Punta Cana, as visibility is limited and currents get stronger, making work risky. Fortunately, we experience small windows when the ocean allows us to get back in the water. 

This was the case for our most ambitious target of microfragments to outplant. After having to reschedule due to weather and dealing with a motor malfunction on the exact day of the activity, a team of 16 citizen scientists, along with divers from the Marine Innovation Center, achieved a new outplanting record. We outplanted 2,707 microfragments of 8 species back onto the reef. This activity was not only for coral conservation but also aimed to involve the community in learning and active participation. We had teenagers, fishermen, diving instructors, biologists, photographers, parents, and interns all doing their part to secure 205 biodegradable nets with these corals. 

Winter symbolizes unity, support, and family. That day, our goals aligned to restore the coral reefs of Punta Cana.