Scientists reverse bleached coral health in seven weeks using healthy clones
Stanford researchers observed bleached corals fully recover within seven weeks after brief contact with healthy genetic clones in a laboratory study published in Science Advances.
Bleached corals regain color quickly
Ghostly white specimens returned to full health inside a lab setting. This recovery took place within seven weeks, marking the fastest documented speed for such an event. The process involved brief contact between dying corals and healthy genetic copies.
Heat waves drive coral loss
Warming waters cause corals to expel the colorful algae that provide necessary energy. Without these partners, the animals become pale and vulnerable to harmful invaders. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of these intense marine heat events.
Recovery time usually takes years
Natural recovery for surviving corals typically spans months or even years after a bleaching event. The new method offers a potential path to restore reefs faster than nature allows. These findings could inspire new ways to protect coral populations from disappearing.
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