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Scientists restore bleached coral by touching healthy fragments in lab

Researchers at Stanford University and Hopkins Marine Station reported that bleached corals recovered fully within days after contact with healthy neighbours.

‘Incredible’: bleached corals thrive within days when touching healthy neighbour
File photo ‘Incredible’: bleached corals thrive within days when touching healthy neighbour Photo: Nature

Lab study shows rapid recovery

A team of researchers demonstrated that placing bleached coral next to a healthy fragment reverses the bleaching process. The restoration occurred in just a few days inside a laboratory setting. This method allows marine organisms to regain their symbiotic algae and stop starving.

Study published in Science Advances

The findings were reported in the journal Science Advances on 14 October. Co-author Fiorenza Micheli from Stanford University described the result as an incredible new solution for coral decline. Stephen Palumbi from Hopkins Marine Station observed the healing touch during early 2025 work.

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