Fushifaru Maldives’ groundbreaking Coral Propagation Project
Fushifaru Maldives, a luxurious five-star boutique resort situated in Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives, launched a ‘Coral Propagation’ project in 2020 as part of their efforts to regenerate coral reefs and contribute to the preservation of the ocean ecosystem. With the assistance of their dive team and in-house marine biologist, they successfully attached broken corals to frames which were placed on the ocean floor in the lagoon surrounding the island. Since then, the corals have grown remarkably well, increasing genetic variability up to 60% and promoting biodiversity.
The project has been successful due to the resort’s dedication to marine conservation, and their staff’s expertise in marine biology and coral propagation. Natalia Fernández Cabrera, the in-house marine biologist, explains that they replanted new species of corals alongside the same species with different phenotypes that then reproduced with each other, starting new colonies. The growth of coral frames in the lagoon provides an ideal environment for corals to grow, and as they do so, they form a new colony. The process is slow but proven, and the success of this initiative is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and determination in the face of environmental challenges.
The coral frames have also become a popular attraction for guests who can snorkel around them and see the corals up close. The project has inspired other resorts in the Maldives to launch similar initiatives, creating a network of healthy coral reefs around the country. The success of the coral regeneration project is a hopeful and inspiring example of what can be achieved when people come together to protect the environment. By taking a proactive approach to marine conservation, the resort has demonstrated that it is possible to reverse the damage caused by human activity and restore the beauty and diversity of our oceans.
This project serves as a reminder that everyone can play a part in protecting the environment and creating a more sustainable future for our planet. The success of the Coral Propagation project shows the importance of taking action towards environmental conservation and highlights the positive impact it can have on the ecosystem. It is crucial that individuals, organizations, and governments work together to combat the adverse effects of climate change and protect our natural resources for future generations. The success of this project provides hope and inspiration for future initiatives and encourages everyone to take an active role in preserving our planet.