As corals face record heat, the Florida Aquarium is doing its part

As record ocean temperatures endanger Florida’s vital barrier reef, the Coral Conservation Program at The Florida Aquarium is working to save threatened corals.

The heat wave coincides with spawning season, when corals reproduce.

“Spawning is critical for our restoration efforts. There are important steps being taken right here in Tampa Bay to address these environmental challenges,” Aquarium Director and Senior Scientist Keri O’Neil said.

Biologists have spawned 14 coral species at The Florida Aquarium – many of which had never reproduced in a lab.

Coral reefs protect coastal areas from storms, provide habitat for marine life and help support Florida’s economy.

– Peter Schorsch, Extensive Enterprises Media, The Tampa Bay 100