Reef Rehabilitation and Coral Propagation
Project number: R002/09/DRR

Start date: To be confirmed
End date: Ongoing.
Location: Dahab/Nabq/Nuweiba. Egypt.
Volunteers: Min 4. Max 20
Minimum qualification: Research Diver trainee.

Participation in this project is available to non divers

Objective:

Research into coral propagation for reef rehabilitation is a new science and depending on the local environment the results can vary dramatically. RED SEA RESEARCH in collaboration with the Red Sea Environmental Centre (RSEC) are planning to conduct experiments to develop a system of coral propagation and reef rehabilitation specifically for use in the Gulf of Aqaba and Red sea environments. Suitable techniques will be implemented to rehabilitate damaged and unhealthy reefs in South Sinai. The reefs in this area are threatened by excessive recreational diver traffic, unregulated fishing, and pollution caused by coastal construction sites.

Conclusion: The knowledge, experience and data gained by experimentation, research into coral propagation and reef rehabilitation will benefit coral reef research programs globally, providing experience and training for volunteers participating in the project. The benefits to the reef ecology and local tourism will be made apparent with time and the advent of coral farming and environmental management programs.