The Marine Biologists at Sandies Bathala have started a Coral Garden restoration program to preserve and protect the coral reefs for the future as part of a continuous pledge to prioritize ocean conservation and protect the natural environment.

Coral reef restoration requires expertise, forethought, and size. Since the reef needs to be repopulated, the Marine Biology team has created the first mid-water coral nursery on Bathala to test and, in a subsequent step, increase coral production. This process, known as “coral gardening,” involves growing coral fragments in a nursery under ideal conditions before they are big enough to be planted on the reef. This enables the growth of thousands of new corals with a greater chance of surviving on the reef within a year. The biologists are closely observing the development of corals growing on “Bathalantis” in order to test and improve the process.

The goal of the coral cookie project is to actively engage visitors by having them adopt and name coral fragments. By salvaging broken corals and fastening them to “Coral Cookies” before they are cemented to the reef alongside visitors, the resort replenishes shallow areas of the Bathala house reef. Along with a certificate and pictures of the event, participants gain a better understanding of coral reef ecology and strategies for maintaining coral reef health.

All diving and snorkeling guests are welcome to visit the coral nursery, “Bathalantis,” so the Sandies Bathala biologists are happy to give you a quick tour. Contact Dr. Inga Dehnert, the Marine Research Manager at [email protected] for more information, or send an email to [email protected].