Mote Marine Laboratory's Coral Gene Bank works to preserve coral species
Scientists working to save Florida's coral reefs
FOX 13's Kimberly Kuizon reports on scientists at Sarasota's Mote Marine Laboratory Coral Gene Bank who have achieved remarkable success in preserving coral species that have been harmed.
SARASOTA, Fla. - When you step through the doors of Mote Marine Laboratory’s International Coral Gene Bank, you’re a witness to lifesaving underwater work.
"Mote’s International Coral Gene Bank is a Noah’s Ark for coral species preservation," said Dr. Erinn Muller, the director of the gene bank.
Coral species that are being preserved at Mote’s International Coral Gene Bank.
"We are one of the few organizations around the world that is doing this. It’s such an important infrastructure we can utilize for conservation," Muller said.
The backstory:
During the unprecedented 2023 coral bleaching event, scientists with the gene bank were able to save the last known species of coral in the Dry Tortugas.
"Some of the most important reef-building species, like the Elkhorn coral and the Staghorn coral, unfortunately, are very few and far between on the reef. Because of places like Mote’s Gene Bank, we have all the genotypes preserved," said Muller.
Dr. Erinn Muller standing over coral species that are being preserved at Mote’s International Coral Gene Bank.
Working with NOAA and the Department of Interior, the gene bank has branched out to deep-water aqua corals.
These corals were harmed in the Gulf following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
READ: Sarasota illegal gambling bust: 5 arrested, nearly 60 illicit slot machines seized
"This is a way to ensure all the species of coral in Florida are preserved and that their diversity is preserved so we can restore the reef in years to come," said Muller.
Dig deeper:
To ensure their future, the gene bank uses technology called Cryopreservation to freeze coral sperm and create a genetic ‘time capsule.’
"We will be focused on sexual propagation on these corals, creating thousands and thousands of babies so we can pump into the pipeline," Muller said.
Each coral saved and every one produced gives hope for the future of the Florida reef system.
CLICK HERE:>>> Follow FOX 13 on YouTube
"This infrastructure and the people here really give me hope so we can recover Florida’s coral reef in our lifetime," said Muller.
The Source: FOX 13's Kimberly Kuizon collected the information in this story.
STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA:
- Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV
- Download FOX Local mobile app: Apple | Android
- Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines
- Download the SkyTower Radar app
- Sign up for FOX 13’s daily newsletter