Competition and overgrowth by algae is among the primary hazards faced by tiny coral spat (young coral) during their first months in aquaculture or on the reef. Overcoming their low survival during this early life phase represents one of the greatest barriers to upscaling reef restoration.
This project investigates the potential for the application of non-toxic antifoulant coatings on coral deployment devices to reduce competition by algae and maximise coral recruit growth and survival.
The coatings have shown great promise in reducing algal growth and improving survival of coral spat when deployed on the reef in our previous tests.
In 2024, we will field test the application of coatings on both the deployment device and in close proximity to spat to maximise protection. The antifouled devices deployed after the 2023 spawning will be assessed for their ability to protect coral spat across a wider diversity of reef habitats.
Researchers
Dr Jose Montalvo Proano
Guillermo Diaz-Pulido (Griffith University)
Florita Flores
Andrea Severati
This page was updated in October 2024
