Two staff members of our Animal Care team, Jordan Caravas and Ally Harvey, participated in a two-tank dive with Key Dives. Key Dives partners with Mote Marine Lab and I.CARE in their efforts to restore coral reef in the Florida Keys.
This exciting hands-on experience was part of a long-term effort in maintaining the health of local reefs through work such as outplanting coral fragments and sponges, along with removing any pests that may impact coral growth and development.
Starting with a training seminar on outplanting corals and sponges, Jordan and Ally learned the intricacies of coral restoration and the efforts I.CARE and its staff and interns put forth to aid in this important mission.
Afterwards, they were given a quick tour of one of Mote Marine Labs coral nurseries located in Islamorada. I.CARE partners with Mote to help outplant these corals once they’re ready to begin their lives on the reef.
During their dives, Jordan and Ally actively participated in reef maintenance by removing predatory corallivorous yellow-footed snails (Coralliophila abbreviata); a species that is native to the Florida keys, but can over-prune coral reefs and leave them more susceptible to disease and bleaching.
Rising water temperatures in the Keys does not allow for corals to be outplanted too late into the summer, as it lowers their chances of survival. However, removing pests such as yellow-footed snails gives corals a greater chance of healthy growth.
Jordan and Ally’s participation in this project highlights the Conservancy’s efforts to promote environmental conservation throughout South Florida. This trip not only supported coral reef restoration, but also deepened the Conservancy’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. If anyone is interested in volunteering with I.CARE, more information can be found at here.
