Red coral, a precious and emblematic species of the Mediterranean, has long been coveted for its striking beauty and has been used in jewellery for centuries…
Over exploitation and the impacts of climate change have left its populations vulnerable, however, making conservation efforts more crucial than ever. Recently, Prince Albert II visited Palermo to open the 43rd congress of the International Commission for Scientific Exploration of the Mediterranean Sea (CIESM). As part of his visit, he attended an exhibition on red coral conservation, highlighting the ongoing efforts led by the Monaco Scientific Centre (CSM) to restore this endangered marine species.
In a groundbreaking achievement, the CSM recently announced the successful reproduction of around 250 baby red corals, marking a first in conservation history. This milestone is the result of a long-term collaborative effort between the Monaco Scientific Centre and the Oceanographic Observatory of Banyuls-sur-Mer. Their joint program, supported by the Prince Albert II Foundation and funded by CHANEL, aims to create sustainable methods for conserving red coral populations.
The project began with the construction of six artificial “coral caves,” placed 40 meters underwater off the coast of Monaco. These structures provided a controlled environment for coral breeding, significantly increasing the chances of larval settlement compared to the open sea. Unlike natural habitats where 99% of coral larvae fail to attach, these caves created ideal conditions for survival. The success has been attributed to maintaining stable temperatures and utilizing protective covers to prevent larvae from drifting away, allowing researchers to closely monitor and care for the young colonies.
This achievement offers a glimmer of hope for the future of red coral, which grows slowly (just 1-3 mm per year) and has been overharvested for centuries. By pioneering methods to breed red coral outside of natural environments, scientists can help restore depleted populations without relying on wild stocks. The researchers are now focused on refining these techniques, using their underwater laboratory as a model for future restoration projects in the Mediterranean and beyond.
The efforts to preserve red coral go beyond just conservation. They are also intertwined with cultural heritage, as red coral has been a part of Mediterranean tradition for thousands of years. The ability to restore this species represents a merging of ecological preservation and the safeguarding of cultural practices. CSM’s collaboration with CHANEL, which funds the research, further underlines the importance of partnerships between science, business, and environmental advocacy.
The success of this program is also set to be featured at the CIESM congress, where the progress of the red coral project will be showcased. It represents not only a scientific breakthrough but also a testament to Monaco’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation, a cause championed by Prince Albert II. By investing in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions, Monaco continues to lead the way in efforts to protect and preserve the biodiversity of the Mediterranean.
The recent reproduction of baby corals, together with the exhibition in Palermo, highlights the urgent need for continued focus on marine conservation. With their successful collaboration, the CSM and its partners have set a precedent for how scientific research can directly contribute to the recovery of endangered species, helping to build a more sustainable future for the delicate ecosystems of the Mediterranean.
Photo by Hoyoun Lee
