Veracruz Reef Restoration Program by Oceanus, A.C.
LOCATION: Veracruz Reef System, Veracruz.
STATUS: ACTIVE
The sites are located within the polygon of the Veracruz Reef System National Park located at:
* El arrecife Anegada de Adentro y
* Arrecife Pájaros.
Here we begin our first studies and tests of the restoration techniques of Oceanus, A.C. (2007-2008) with the aim of recovering sites impacted by groundings. It was on this site that we designed the first version of the Reef Restoration Program (2009), which was a pioneer in showing the importance of initiating active restoration actions on a constant basis.
Acropora populations at these sites have enormous potential for resilience and adaptation, and colonies tend to grow three times faster than at other sites, showing up to 100% survival in coral nurseries. The largest colonies now measure more than 2m in diameter and about 70cm in height, having a significant effect on coastal protection and ecosystem dynamics.
In this place we have transplanted more than 10,000 colonies distributed in its 4 sites. In this town we have also been pioneers in continuous work with volunteers and in collaboration with the protected area, dive shops and NGOs. Students from the Universidad Veracruzana and the Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana have carried out research on the sites, helping to train new professionals.
Anegada de Adentro
Arrecife Pájaros
