Coral communities in the Seychelles

Since 2006, Earthwatch has been part of the Global Coral Reef Conservation Project, which is translating cutting-edge science into practical coral management solutions. Most recently, work has focused on ‘coral gardening’ in the Seychelles, where resilient coral types are grown in special underwater nurseries and then introduced back into vulnerable reefs.

Part of our work in this area also focuses on the impact that coral reef degradation has on the fishing communities who depend on coral reefs for their food and their livelihoods. The aim for the project is to increase the resilience of coral reefs, helping to protect them from the effects of climate change and securing their future for marine life and people.

Our partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation has provided training opportunities for local scientists, to help them become the next generation of conservation leaders. The training programmes are focused on socioeconomic research and community engagement, as well as on marine conservation.

Our coral reef conservation work in the Seychelles has led to:

• More than 12,000 hours of research conducted by over 160 participants;
• Detailed biodiversity assessments, including the identification of three new species;
• Nearly 20 scientific publications; and
• More than 40 local scientists trained in socioeconomic research methods.

Learn more about how Mitsubishi Corporation is helping Earthwatch protect coral reefs in the Seychelles.