Scientists have developed a coral reef restoration technology that increases coral feeding by attracting zooplankton with underwater lights.
A new coral reef restoration technology offers hope for struggling coral reefs by helping them get more food. Scientists have created the Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA), a smart underwater light designed to attract zooplankton, the tiny creatures that corals feed on.
By increasing food supply, this innovation could help corals survive rising ocean temperatures and other environmental challenges.
A six-month study in Hawaii tested UZELA on two types of coral. The results were impressive: the light drew in more zooplankton, and both healthy and bleached corals fed more. More food means stronger corals, making them better equipped to handle stress from climate change.
Coral reefs are essential marine ecosystems. They cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support about one-third of all marine life. Reefs also protect coastlines from erosion and storm damage and support fishing industries that millions of people rely on.
However, climate change is putting them at risk. Some experts predict that, without intervention, most coral reefs could disappear by 2050.
UZELA isn’t a permanent fix, but it buys time. Increasing coral feeding rates 10- to 50-fold provides an energy boost that helps corals recover from bleaching and other stressors.
While UZELA has exciting potential, it’s not without challenges. One concern is that artificial light can disrupt the natural behavior of marine life. Scientists only run UZELA for one hour after dusk to minimise this risk. So far, studies suggest the device doesn’t harm the surrounding environment, but more research is needed.
Another challenge is that not all corals may respond similarly to increased feeding. UZELA works best in specific conditions, and large-scale deployment will require careful planning.
UZELA is just one tool in the growing coral reef restoration technology field. Other approaches include coral farming (growing and transplanting new coral colonies), micro fragmentation (cutting corals into tiny pieces to speed up growth) and genetic breeding (developing corals that are more resistant to heat stress).
While these methods focus on rebuilding coral populations, UZELA strengthens existing corals by giving them better access to food. Scientists believe a mix of different strategies will offer the best chance of protecting reefs.
One of UZELA’s biggest advantages is that it’s easy to use. The device runs on a single battery for six months and can be maintained by divers. Currently, each unit is handmade, but researchers are working with an Ohio-based engineering company to create a more scalable version. A refined design could be available within one to three years.
Even with these advancements, scientists stress that UZELA is not a magic fix. It’s a short-term aid that helps corals survive while longer-term solutions, like reducing carbon emissions, are developed. As lead researcher Andrea Grottoli puts it, “Think of it as a band-aid, it can protect some corals in some places, sometimes.”
While scientists work on big-picture solutions, small actions from individuals can also make a difference. Here’s how you can help:
- Reduce your carbon footprint: Climate change is the biggest threat to coral reefs. Cutting energy use and supporting clean energy helps slow global warming.
- Choose sustainable seafood: Overfishing damages coral reef ecosystems. Buying seafood from sustainable sources protects marine biodiversity.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Many sunscreens contain chemicals that harm corals. Look for products labeled “reef-safe.”
- Support conservation efforts: Donate to or volunteer with organizations working to restore coral reefs.
- Spread the word: Educating others about coral reef threats helps build support for conservation efforts.
Coral reefs face increasing threats, so coral reef restoration technology like UZELA offers a hopeful step forward. By improving coral nutrition, this device helps reefs hold on while scientists and policymakers work toward bigger environmental solutions.
While no single technology can save coral reefs alone, combining approaches, including an innovative coral reef restoration technology like UZELA, can give these vital ecosystems a fighting chance.
