Collecting Gorgonians of Opportunity for The ReefLine

On September 16th, The International SeaKeepers Society joined local marine biologist from Coral Morphologic and The ReefLine for the fourth and final outing of this gorgonian collection effort aboard DISCOVERY Vessel Knot Golfing. During this expedition, approximately 500 microfragments from a variety of native gorgonian octocorals were collected. These fragments were then attached to Coral Lok plugs in the Miami Native Coral Lab, where they will continue to grow until ready for installation.

In addition to fragment collection, researchers discovered a significant amount of discarded synthetic rope entangled in the reef structure and around living coral colonies. This debris was carefully removed, preventing further damage and giving the corals space to recover. Removing marine debris like this helps reduce physical stress on the reef, improves water flow, and reduces the risk of abrasion or breakage of living corals – all of which support a healthier reef ecosystem.