Local Coral FAQ

Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease

What is Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD)?

Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) is a disease of corals that first appeared off the southeast coast of Florida in 2014. It destroys the soft tissue of at least 22 species of reef-building corals, killing them within weeks or months of becoming infected. Source: Wikipedia

A new study suggests that ship’s ballast water may pose a threat to continued spread. Source: University of Miami Rosenstiel School

Where can SCTLD be found?

The Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment page shows a map of where SCTLD is present in Florida. You can also submit basic and detailed bleaching and disease surveys.

What coral species are affected by SCTLD?

The Coral Disease and Health Consortium website has a list of which species are affected.

Can SCTLD be treated?

Yes, on a small scale. How To Treat Corals Affected by Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease

What is Microfragmenting?

The Micro-Fragmentation technique consists of breaking the corals into smaller pieces of 1 to 5 polyps, using a specialised band-saw. This stimulates the coral tissue to grow, allowing them to grow into clones at 25 to 50 times the normal growth rate. Source: Ocean Gardener

What is Coral Stress Hardening?

Stress-hardening is one approach proposed to increase the thermal tolerance of coral genotypes currently grown for restoration. The Coral Program's heat stress resilience research will support the survival of coral reefs amidst warming sea surface temperatures and bleaching events. Source: NOAA

The term 'assisted evolution' (AE) refers to a range of approaches that involve active intervention to accelerate the rate of naturally occurring evolutionary processes. These approaches aim to enhance certain attributes such as temperature tolerance, growth or reproduction. Source: AIMS

What is Assisted Evolution?