The World Coral Conservatory (WCC): A Noah's Ark for Corals to Support Survival of Reef Ecosystems

Overview

Journal PLoS Biol

Specialty Biology

Date 2020 Sep 14

PMID 32925901

Citations 5

Authors

Didier Zoccola

Nadia Ounais

Dominique Barthelemy

Robert Calcagno

Francoise Gaill

Stephane Henard

Ove Hoegh-Guldberg

Max Janse

Jean Jaubert

Hollie Putnam

Bernard Salvat

Christian R Voolstra

Denis Allemand

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Global change causes widespread decline of coral reefs. In order to counter the anticipated disappearance of coral reefs by the end of this century, many initiatives are emerging, including creation of marine protected areas (MPAs), reef restoration projects, and assisted evolution initiatives. Such efforts, although critically important, are locally constrained. We propose to build a "Noah's Ark" biological repository for corals that taps into the network of the world's public aquaria and coral reef scientists. Public aquaria will serve not only as a reservoir for the purpose of conservation, restoration, and research of reef-building corals but also as a laboratory for the implementation of operations for the selection of stress-resilient and resistant genotypes. The proposed project will provide a global dimension to coral reef education and protection as a result of the involvement of a network of public and private aquaria.

Citing Articles

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