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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
NSU Researchers Grow Corals to Replace Damaged Ones
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL— Nova Southeastern University (NSU) researchers are producing corals to restore damaged reefs throughout South Florida.
Researchers from NSU’s National Coral Reef Institute are heading into the ocean from Saturday to Thursday to observe the once-a-year phenomenon known as coral spawning.
After the full moon every August, corals release millions of sperm and eggs into the ocean at night. NSU researchers collect some of the fertilized eggs to grow corals in their laboratory.
When lab corals reach a minimum size, researchers will return them to the ocean to help restore reefs that have been physically damaged by events such as anchors and ship groundings.
Coral populations have been declining in South Florida and throughout the world for decades. Their decline negatively impacts the rest of the ecosystem.
Restoring coral reefs is critical to saving the oceans. NSU’s federally funded research is leading the way.
Media Contact:
Ken Ma, NSU Office of Public Affairs
954-262-5408 Office, 954-830-4177 Cell, kennma@nova.edu