Researchers in South Florida are pioneering an innovative approach to safeguarding laboratory-grown coral from predatory fish, utilizing biodegradable materials to aid in coral reef restoration efforts.
Coral reefs, often referred to as the “rainforest of the sea,” are crucial ecosystems supporting over 25% of marine species. However, the decline of coral populations due to various factors, including rising ocean temperatures, has prompted urgent conservation measures.
Marine researcher Kyle Pisano and his partner, Kirk Dotson, have developed the Coral Fort—a biodegradable cage crafted partly from drinking straws—to enhance the survival rate of transplanted coral. Predators like parrot fish pose a significant threat to newly transplanted coral, often causing survival rates to plummet below 40%.
The Coral Fort, designed to dissolve over time, eliminates the need for maintenance or removal. Pisano’s experiments with biodegradable coral cages, conducted during his master’s degree program at Nova Southeastern University, utilized a biopolymer derived from canola oil, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
The cage comprises a limestone disc encircled by eight vertical drinking straws made from a biodegradable material called polyhydroxyalkanoate. These straws, initially designed for boba drinks, provide adequate protection for the coral before harmlessly dissolving in the ocean.
Reef Fortify Inc., founded by Pisano and Dotson, aims to collaborate with reef restoration projects worldwide. The Coral Forts have already gained traction among researchers at various institutions, including Nova Southeastern University, the University of Miami, and Hawaii’s Division of Aquatic Resources.
Coral researcher Rich Karp from the University of Miami highlights the efficiency of the Coral Forts, significantly reducing the labor-intensive process of protecting and maintaining coral. This innovative solution not only enhances the survival of transplanted coral but also streamlines restoration efforts crucial for preserving oceanic biodiversity and coastal resilience against natural disasters like hurricanes.
