As we stare at the Coral Reef apocalypse shortly, a light of hope is ignited by a strong scientific experiment done under the waves. Through “coral IVF” and using fish noise recordings, they want to reenergize reefs that are already badly degraded, and thus give a chance to ecosystems that are almost gone.
The experiment is described in the BBC One program “Our Changing Planet” and is a result of the collaborative effort of the worldwide scientific groups. Prof. Peter Harrison’s “coral IVF” approach uses cold-resistant coral spawn to generate hardy larvae. The method may increase the number of coral colonies by a thousand.
To lead these larvae to these silent, sick reefs, Prof. Steve Simpson as a guide has been using the fish sounds, which trick the larvae into settling on the reefs. This mutualistic tendency resembles the strength of nature, providing a guide for the restoration of reefs on a large scale.
Nevertheless, the countdown is rapidly running out as coral reefs are subjected to the most intense bleaching events caused by a warming ocean. Despite these setbacks, the trial should signify a moment of breakthrough in the process of conservation and adaptation.
From Steve Backshall, co-host of “Our Changing Planet,” comes the poignant realization of how witnessing coral larvae react to healthy reef sounds could be all that is needed to highlight the urgency that addressing climate change poses to preserve these vital ecosystems. Though the road leads to difficulties, the combination of science and nature indicates a sign of hope. The restoration of coral reefs can be realized through their preservation and the action to mitigate climate change. Therefore, we can prepare the world for a better future for coral reefs and the planet.
