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KAUST Reefscape Restoration Initiative observes coral spawning at NEOM’s Shushah Island

KAUST · · Notable

Research Partnership Ecology KAUST NEOM

Summary

The KAUST Reefscape Restoration Initiative (KRRI) observed the first-ever mass synchronized coral spawning in the northern Red Sea at NEOM’s Shushah Island. In March 2023, KRRI launched on-the-reef restoration work at Shushah, propagating nearly 5,000 corals from a dozen species, nearly half of their 2023 annual target. KRRI is testing various coral propagation techniques and nursery designs, aiming to produce half a million corals per year. Why it matters: This initiative is a major step towards coral reef restoration in the Red Sea, aligning with Saudi Arabia's sustainable development goals.

Keywords

KAUST · coral reef · restoration · NEOM · Red Sea

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