Scientists at Ohio State University have made an exciting breakthrough in coral reef restoration with a delightful new invention called the Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA). This innovative device acts like a bird feeder specifically for coral reefs, using a special type of light to attract tiny organisms called zooplankton, which are essential for the nourishment of corals.

In partnership with the Coral Restoration Foundation, researchers tested the UZELA in the beautiful waters of Hawaii over six months, focusing on two local coral species. The results were incredibly promising! The UZELA significantly increased the density of zooplankton and boosted the feeding rates of both healthy and bleached corals. When corals can feast on more zooplankton, they grow stronger and become more resilient to environmental challenges like heat stress and ocean acidification.

Andrea Grottoli, the lead author of the study and a dedicated professor of earth sciences at Ohio State University, shared the remarkable fact that coral reefs support one-third of all marine species despite occupying less than 1% of the ocean. UZELA has the potential to transform coral nursery operations, making them more effective and efficient. By promoting coral health and survival, this innovation could shorten the time it takes for corals to reach a size suitable for replanting onto reefs, enhancing the success of restoration projects and reducing costs.

While artificial lights can sometimes affect marine life, the researchers have found that the UZELA does not disrupt the surrounding zooplankton flow. Instead, it attracts them in a way that benefits the corals without depleting resources from nearby areas. Grottoli explains that the UZELA draws zooplankton closer to the corals, resulting in a remarkable increase in their feeding rates—by as much as 10 to 50 times!

This project embodies a joyful step forward in harnessing technology for the sake of nature. By strategically deploying UZELA in key areas, we can inject new energy into coral restoration efforts, especially in reefs that have already seen significant investment.

This positive news highlights the potential for innovative solutions to support our precious coral reefs and strengthen the health of our oceans for generations to come.