Fabunerds, Let’s Talk Coral Fragging

Coral propagation or fragging is the process of removing a section of an existing coral and attaching the fragmented piece onto an artificial or natural substrate to grow. (If you’re not sure why anyone would do this, please read my last droppin’ knowledge about the importance of coral reefs). Conservation groups around the globe have employed this practice to try to re-establish corals in areas with coral decline or in an effort to restore disturbed populations.

While this practice is generally well-meaning, there are several areas of concern for consideration. As a marine genomicist, I am primarily worried about the lack of genetic studies and understanding of genetic diversity in this growing field. Considering coral reproduction strategies, water quality, ocean acidification, increased water temperatures, bleaching events and the overall impacts of climate change, is coral fragging worth the effort or is it a waste of time? Well, it seems to depend on the fragging approach and ultimately on water quality.

Maintaining genetic integrity is paramount to the survival of any species particularly with regard to disease for which clonal reef taxa are highly susceptible due to their low genetic diversity. Another question to consider is whether the newly introduced fragments have the potential to alter the existing coral community structure.

Finally, and most importantly, what is the ability of these introduced clonal species to respond to climate change and changing water quality? Making informed decisions based on the population genetics we currently know is the best way forward as stress resistance, for example, is species specific. What are your thoughts? Please see the following post by Chad Scott which explores these themes in greater detail:

http://conservationdiver.com/coral-fragging-should-be-banned/

For more information and up to date understanding of the complexities behind coral fragging and conservation efforts, visit Dr. Iliana Baums’ laboratory website.