Coastal Aquaculture and Mariculture (2+1)

Unit 1 - Shore based aquaculture and mariculture

1.2.7. Corals

• There has been some small-scale development of coral farming in the Pacific Islands. Both soft and hard corals have been cultured, primarily for the marine aquarium trade, although some hard corals are sold as curios or used for restoration of degraded areas on coral reefs.
• Corals are propagated vegetatively. Small pieces of live coral are glued to bases, and these are placed on underwater “tables” fitted with galvanized wire mesh. Growth is reportedly rapid, with aquarium corals reaching harvestable size in 3–12 months. Because of the low level of capital investment needed and the relatively simple propagation methods used, coral culture is suitable for remote coastal communities where infrastructure may be lacking.