Coral propagation program
Become a coral gardener and take action to protect the reefs
Actively participate in a unique diving and marine conservation experience of the coral reefs in the Philippines thanks to an immersive program combining diving, marine ecology, and coral propagation.
At Anda Scuba Diving, we go beyond recreational diving. We offer a coral propagation and rehabilitation program based on the natural method, an approach recognized and used in many conservation projects around the world.
This activity allows divers to actively participate in the protection of coral reefs while experiencing a unique and rewarding experience.
Why coral conservation matters
Coral reefs today are threatened by:
-
global warming
-
pollution
-
overcrowding
-
destructive fishing practices
Coral propagation aims to:
-
restore degraded areas
-
strengthen reef resilience
-
preserve marine biodiversity
-
raise divers' awareness about protecting the ocean
Why Anda is an ideal site for rehabilitation
The Anda region in Bohol offers:
-
reefs that are still very rich
-
exceptional biodiversity
-
areas suitable for restoration
-
an environment little affected by mass tourism
Our center works in connection with the local ecosystem and in a responsible manner.
A lasting commitment at Anda Scuba Diving
Coral propagation is an integral part of our values:
-
responsible diving
-
respect for the environment
-
education and awareness
-
concrete and useful projects
This program perfectly complements our SSI courses, especially for divers looking to progress to advanced or professional levels.
coral propagation program
Since 2019, Anda Scuba Diving has been developing a coral propagation program aimed at raising divers' awareness of the importance of reefs and the protection of marine ecosystems.
The reefs at Anda are still in excellent health and host exceptional biodiversity. Our goal is not to 'rebuild' a destroyed reef, but to contribute to its long-term preservation through education, observation, and the propagation of coral fragments.
The coral fragments used in the project mainly come from pieces that have naturally detached, for example after waves or storms.
These fragments can then be placed in coral nurseries where they can grow before being used in reef rehabilitation projects.
a natural Method
The propagation program is based on:
-
the selection of resilient coral fragments
-
respectful propagation techniques
-
controlled growth on suitable structures
-
monitoring and transplantation onto the reef
This approach enables sustainable restoration without negative impact on the existing ecosystem.
November 2019
Gluing our first cutting which is about 1 cm.
December 2019
1 month later the cutting has grown by 1 cm and measures 2.5 cm.
February 2020
3 months later, calcification is done on the substrate and the cutting develops. It is more than 3 cm.
March 2020
4 months old, here is a healthy baby coral who continues to grow.
Why create a coral nursery?
Nurseries allow:
-
observing the growth of corals,
-
propagating certain fragments naturally broken off,
-
better understanding the reefs,
-
and raising divers' awareness of the fragility of marine ecosystems.
The fragments used mainly come from corals naturally detached by:
-
waves,
-
storms,
-
or certain natural phenomena.
These fragments can continue to develop in a suitable environment.
Construction d'une Nursery sur House Reef
become a coral gardener
1
THEORy
-
Viewing the coral propagation video (1 hour)
-
Reading the manual (125 pages)
-
Questionnaire / Knowledge test
2
PREPARATION
-
Presentation of equipment and gear
-
Identification of different types of corals
-
Identification of substrates
-
Dive 1: collection of cuttings, corals, and substrates
3
PROPAGATION
Propagation on the boat with the equipment
Dive 2: replanting the cuttings and setting them up in the nursery
Photos of the cuttings
Certification
why participate ?
Becoming a coral gardener allows you to:
-
learn more about coral reefs
-
understand how coral propagation works
-
contribute to a local conservation project
-
expand your knowledge of marine ecosystems
-
give your dives a more meaningful purpose
The program is open to:
-
certified Open Water divers (minimum 15 dives)
-
future professionals
-
people who care about the marine environment
Activities are always carried out with respect for safety and the environment.
Participating in coral propagation means:
-
diving with a concrete purpose
-
leaving a positive impact
-
contributing to a long-term local project
-
giving more meaning to your dives
It is also an excellent way to deepen your understanding of reefs and how they function.
