Laura reef site in Marshall Islands ideal spot for coral protection, study confirms

Scientists found that corals in the Laura reef showed tolerance to high temperatures. Photo courtesy of The Nature Conservancy

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Conservation groups are advocating for the protection of a reef site in the Marshall Islands, where scientists have discovered heat-resistant corals that are likely to survive the impact of climate change.

The Nature Conservancy said the results of a scientific study indicated that Laura, located in the southern part of the Majuro Atoll, would make an ideal site for coral conservation.

The group cited a study by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Stanford University, which found that corals in the Laura reef showed tolerance to high temperatures.

“As reefs around the world face growing threats, protecting those that show signs of resilience is more important than ever,” said Dolores deBrum-Kattil, executive director of the Marshall Islands Conservation Society.

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The Nature Conservancy has been collaborating with the Marshall Islands and the Marshall Islands Conservation Society to help protect coral reefs that are more resilient to climate change, known as reef refugia.

Scientists used high-resolution oceanographic models of Majuro to predict where heat-resistant corals are likely to survive. These predictions were then tested in the field to confirm the model's predictions.

“Reef refugia offer an opportunity to safeguard marine biodiversity and build more resilient communities in island nations like ours, which are especially vulnerable to climate change,” deBrum-Kattil said.

MICS is coordinating with decision-makers, community members, landowners and local partners to build awareness and support for the long-term protection of the reef.

In December, MICS led outreach sessions with local schools to highlight the importance of managing and restoring coral reefs.

The group is spearheading the efforts to formally designate Laura as a marine protected area through a local ordinance issued by the Majuro Atoll local government.

Community consultations are ongoing to finalize the proposed designation and ensure it reflects local priorities. So far, the community has expressed strong support for the MPA. 

 “We will continue working with our international and local partners to identify coral reef refugia, expanding these efforts to Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia,” said Dr. Yimnang Golbuu, Coral Resilience Director at TNC.

“Combining local knowledge with new science is key to finding and protecting these special reefs that give us a better chance for the future," he added.

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