KAUST has inaugurated the world's first Coral Probiotics Village (CPV) in the Red Sea, a natural laboratory for coral reef research. The CPV is located 20 km off the KAUST campus and will focus on developing solutions for coral preservation and restoration using Beneficial Microorganisms for Corals (BMCs). Researchers aim to mitigate the impacts of thermal stress and pathogens on corals, potentially preventing coral mortality. Why it matters: This initiative positions KAUST as a leader in marine biotechnology and offers innovative approaches to protect coral reefs in the Red Sea and worldwide.
KAUST Associate Professor Raquel Peixoto has been named the 2024 National Champion for Saudi Arabia by the Frontiers Planet Prize. Peixoto won the prize for her research on using probiotics to enhance coral reef resilience against climate change. Her work has led to the establishment of the RSRC Coral Probiotics Village in the Red Sea and collaborations with global pharmaceutical companies. Why it matters: This award highlights the growing recognition of Saudi Arabia's contributions to marine conservation and innovative approaches to addressing climate change impacts on vital ecosystems.
KAUST alumnus Morgan Bennett-Smith's underwater photograph of Professor Raquel Peixoto inoculating corals at the KAUST Coral Probiotics Village won Nature's "Scientist at Work" photo competition and was featured in the journal's December 7, 2022 issue. The photo, taken with a Canon R5 and RF 15-35mm lens inside of a Nauticam underwater housing, shows Peixoto applying probiotics to corals to boost their resilience. Peixoto praises Bennett-Smith's ability to capture the essence of their work and communicate the urgency of the coral crisis through his photographs. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's marine science research and the importance of visual storytelling in communicating scientific advancements and environmental challenges in the Red Sea.