PhD Graduates Advance Coral Restoration Techniques on Great Barrier Reef

Researchers including Colleen Rodd and Chelsea Waters, who recently earned their PhDs at Southern Cross University, have advanced coral restoration techniques such as Coral IVF to help restore Australia's Great Barrier Reef by culturing and releasing coral larvae to establish new coral populations. Their studies focused on improving larval feeding, settlement, and survival to enhance restoration success on damaged reefs. In the United States, retired teacher John Hastings has been leading student groups in the Caribbean on coral restoration projects, providing hands-on experience while aiding reef conservation in regions threatened by climate change, pollution, and overfishing. These initiatives underscore the growing global efforts to combat the dramatic decline of coral reefs caused by environmental stressors. Additionally, some luxury resorts in the Maldives, such as Velasarru, are engaging guests in coral reef restoration efforts, blending tourism with conservation to protect marine ecosystems. These combined academic, community, and tourism-driven projects highlight multifaceted approaches to preserving vital coral reef habitats worldwide.