EFFECTIVE Pilots: Progress & Insights | Pilot 4

Pilot 4 aims to implement a restoration solution in Cyprus to revive the coral populations of the endangered coral species Cladocora caespitosa.

Cladocora caespitosa is a scleractinian coral species endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. It now exhibits a patchy distribution along the Mediterranean Sea, with no true reefs, but in some cases large bioconstructions. In Cyprus, this coral species faces increased vulnerability because its colonies typically occur at depths of less than 5 meters. At such shallow waters, they are exposed to pronounced temperature fluctuations, as well as erosion, sedimentation, extreme climatic events (such as windstorms), and human-induced disturbances. Consequently, urgent measures are required to safeguard this endangered species. 

Under Pilot 4 for the EFFECTIVE project, CMMI has focused its efforts on evaluating the efficacy of a restoration solution involving floating nurseries for the first time in Cyprus. As a first step, the necessary permits were obtained from the relevant Governmental Departments and regulators in Cyprus to initiate fieldwork and the respective actions. For the development of the two coral nurseries, the proposed methodology by Rinkevich, 2019 and adapted for the Cyprus case study (Pilot 4) was followed (Fig. 1). In addition, a mini temperature logger was installed on each nursery to record seawater temperature (SWT) fluctuations with a 30-min interval for the duration of the experiments.

In parallel and in collaboration with the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research – HCMR an ecological status assessment and monitoring scheme of the area’s coastal habitats was initiated. Through seasonal expeditions, the overall benthic community structure is evaluated in both soft- and hard-bottom habitats. 

Among the key findings is that hydrographic conditions play a crucial role in the survival of coral fragments, as one location exhibited the highest survival rate. The weather and hydrodynamic conditions of each area can also affect the installation and the overall progress of the experiment, and ongoing expeditions for inspection are advised. Hands-on adjustments were necessary on several occasions to maintain the nursery’s proper orientation and to fix any damage. Differences in benthic biodiversity and community structure across areas have also been observed. The next step will be to continue the monitoring program related also to the return of the fragments back into their natural habitats, which will conclude the last phase of this Pilot.

Reference:

Rinkevich, B. (2019) The active reef restoration toolbox is a vehicle for coral resilience and adaptation in a changing world», Journ. of Mar. Sci. Eng, 7(7), 201, https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse7070201