ABSTRACT: A new method of coral transplantation is presented. Electrolysis in seawater induces cathodic accretion of calcium and magnesium minerals on an appropriately formed cathode (made of steel mesh, e.g. chicken wire). In this way new substrate with limestone character can be generated in situ. Coral nubbins inserted into the mesh (cathode) during electrolysis are cemented alive to the new substrate within 3 wk. The method combines the formation of a semi-natural substrate with the option of shortening the initial colonisation phase by implanting large numbers of coral nubbins within a short time. Options for reef rehabilitation are outlined.

KEY WORDS: Coral reefs · Coral transplantation · Artificial substrates · Reef rehabilitation

Published in MEPS Vol. 150 (1997) on April 30
ISSN: 0171-8630. Copyright © Inter-Research, Oldendorf/Luhe, 1997