The Ministry of Popular Power for Science and Technology (Mincyt) and the Oceanographic Institute of Venezuela (IOV), affiliated with the University of the East (UDO), are developing a pilot project in Sucre State, in eastern Venezuela, for the conservation and restoration of coral ecosystems.

According to Sinatra Salazar, a researcher and professor at the Institute of Veterinary Sciences (IOV), the plan was implemented at a pilot farm focused on restoring ecosystems affected specifically by the invasive species Unomia stolonifera.

The farm is located in Mochima National Park, “where small fragments of native corals are collected and placed in artisanal, versatile, and economical structures for cultivation.” Salazar emphasized that these structures have proven effective, achieving a 90 % survival rate.

The professor noted that the first coral harvest from this nursery has already taken place and added that the cultivated fragments will be used to restore affected reefs, recovering their diversity and ecosystem function.

Salazar reported that this joint effort also involves the Foundation Institute for Advanced Studies (IDEA), the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA), the Museum of the Sea-UDO, and the National Parks Institute (Inparques), with scientists working to restore the reefs. They are also promoting the creation of small farms for ecosystem restoration and establishing a coral bank that can be used in any environmental emergency.

M.Pino

Source: primicia

(Reference image source: NEOM on Unsplash)

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