ROVs and AUVs Lead the Charge in Coral Reef Revival

According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), ‘’ROVs are unoccupied, highly manoeuvrable underwater machines that can be used to explore ocean depths while being operated by someone at the water surface’’. Their manoeuvrability to explore corals is key to helping map out areas of concern and help conservationists determine the right approach to restoration.

ROVs provide scientists with an up-close look at coral reefs, allowing them to monitor the health of coral colonies and the surrounding ecosystem. These invaluable insights help researchers understand the impact of environmental stressors on coral reefs, guiding conservation efforts and strategies.

NOAA explains AUVs as ‘’unmanned, untethered vehicles used to conduct underwater research’’. They navigate the ocean depths independently, collecting data and mapping the seafloor. Their ability to cover large areas efficiently makes them crucial for assessing the extent of coral reef damage and planning restoration projects.

AUVs use advanced sonar systems and high-resolution cameras to create detailed 3D maps of the seafloor and coral formations. These maps serve as blueprints for restoration initiatives, helping scientists identify areas where coral transplantation can be most effective.

AUVs are also instrumental in sustainable management practices for coral reefs. The devices are capable of monitoring coral health, tracking fish populations, and detecting signs of pollution and coral disease outbreaks. Conservationists can use this data to protect and preserve these ecosystems.

The revival of coral reefs involves more than just monitoring and data collection; it requires active intervention. Dr. Foster a marine biologist from Abrolhos Islands, as reported by BBC News, is developing a novel system to expedite coral reef restoration. Her method involves grafting coral fragments into specialized plugs and placing them on a moulded limestone-type concrete base designed for mass production and easy deployment. Initial results have been promising, with successful growth observed in various coral species.  

Dr. Foster's start-up, Coral Maker, is partnering with Autodesk to employ artificial intelligence-controlled robots for tasks like grafting and placing coral fragments. While challenges like delicate handling of live coral, saltwater damage to electronics, and high costs persist, the project aims to cater to the tourism industry and issue biodiversity credits for funding. Other restoration methods, such as coral seeding and innovative approaches like sound-based attraction of fish, are also being explored in the broader effort to save coral reefs, acknowledging the complexity of the problem. 

In summary, coral reef restoration is a global concern, threatened by climate change and human activities. However, the emergence of advanced technologies like ROVs and AUVs, combined with innovative approaches such as AI-driven coral restoration, offers efficient solutions for their revival.

By harnessing the power of science and cutting-edge tools, we have the opportunity to not only monitor and understand these fragile ecosystems better but also actively intervene to protect and restore them. As we move forward, it is crucial that we continue to prioritise the conservation of coral reefs, recognizing their significance to both marine life and our planet's ecological balance.