
13 May 🪸 Island Lab #2: How can assisted sexual reproduction be achieved when colonies are far apart or spawn on different days?
Introduced by Nichole Danser
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This challenge stems from real-life Aruban scenarios—such as facilitating reproduction between Acropora palmata colonies located in Arashi Bay and Pos Chiquito. ScubbleBubbles, n Aruban foundation committed to ocean conservation and youth engagement, brings this pressing issue to the forefront.
They are applying coral restoration techniques—similar to those used in Bonaire, the Bahamas, and other parts of the world—to support asexual reproduction in branching corals. However, with limited resources, including the inability to rent boats every night during the spawning season and the lack of cryopreservation systems, the question becomes: how can we effectively assist coral sexual reproduction under these constraints?
Hosted within the framework of ICMS-2025, this Island Lab brings together participants to co-design practical strategies for the preservation and restoration of coral reefs, especially in resource-limited settings. By weaving together scientific insight, local knowledge, and collaborative spirit, we aim to create solutions that are both impactful and enduring.
Let’s turn the tide
together, we can build resilient reefs and inspired communities.