MSC Foundation Outplants 32 Elkhorn Coral Fragments in The Bahamas
The restoration work near Browns Cay brings the Super Coral Reefs Programme’s total number of planted corals to 285.
The MSC Foundation has completed another phase of coral restoration in The Bahamas, placing 32 nursery-grown fragments of critically endangered elkhorn coral on a reef near Browns Cay. The location was chosen after reef surveys and biodiversity assessments found suitable conditions for outplanting.
The corals harvested, raised and outplanted at Ocean Cay were sourced from colonies that showed natural tolerance to heat stress. Those colonies recorded 100% survival during the 2023-24 heat wave.
With marine scientists forecasting high ocean temperatures later this summer, the Foundation has decided to keep additional coral fragments in underwater nurseries until conditions improve. Forecast temperatures for the upcoming marine heat wave are expected to reach higher levels.
Scientists will monitor reefs around Ocean Cay each month to assess the health and resilience of both outplanted and naturally occurring corals. The programme plans to resume outplanting after the marine heat wave passes and add new coral fragments to the nursery to continue its restoration cycle.
