The Maldives has introduced a new coral restoration initiative called ReefSeed, designed to combat reef degradation and promote the recovery of vital marine ecosystems. The project was inaugurated by Ahmed Shiyam, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, who described the initiative as a crucial step in addressing environmental challenges brought on by climate change.
ReefSeed is led by the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) in partnership with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS). The three-year programme is supported by a USD 1.5 million G20 initiative and benefits from the expertise of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
The project employs advanced coral propagation systems developed with Australian support. These systems not only enhance restoration efforts but also encourage youth involvement in marine conservation. ReefSeed features a portable, containerised coral aquaculture system that can propagate up to 100,000 young corals at a time. This innovative technology, deployed at Maniyafushi in Kaafu Atoll, aims to increase larval production while reducing the labour-intensive nature of coral restoration work.
According to MMRI, preparations are underway to align coral propagation activities with the Maldives’ coral spawning season, which runs from February to May. The institute also plans to conduct extensive research to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of this technology in supporting large-scale reef restoration.
Minister Shiyam highlighted the importance of local involvement in the project, noting that five Maldivian youth have already been trained in coral propagation techniques through AIMS. This training marks a step towards building local expertise in marine conservation.
Coral reefs are vital to the Maldives’ economy, particularly for the tourism sector, which relies heavily on the country’s rich marine biodiversity. The ReefSeed initiative combines innovative technology with global collaboration to protect and restore these ecosystems, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to marine sustainability.
