Introduction to Coral Reefs

Wednesday, June 18 @2PM –Coral Reef Ecology – This is an introduction to coral reefs/coral reef ecology, describing what corals are, reef structure, benthic makeup, and why people should care about them. We would bring in some coral skeletons, as well as a dissecting microscope for viewing them.

Wednesday, July 16 @2PM –Scientific Study of Coral Reefs-This class will briefly review the topics from the first class before diving into the physical factors influencing the South Florida Coral Reef Tract, with specific emphasis on the ecosystems present in the Palm Beach County area.

Wednesday, Aug 20 @2PM –Coral Reef Conservation & Restoration –This class will describe the many challenges faced by the reef (including high temperatures, fishing pressure, vessel damage, pollution, storms, storms debris, invasive species, dredging, etc.), how science is making a positive difference in the management, conservation, and restoration of coral reefs, and what “you” (public/community) can do to help save coral reefs.

Wednesday, Sep 17 @2PM –Coral Bleach Watch Training –Coral bleaching is a gradual process. There is a progression from healthy (color) to bleached (white) corals. There is an intermediate between healthy and bleached corals in which there is paling (lightening of the corals color) and/or a partial bleaching phase where some of the colony retains its color while the remainder is white. This session will describe the process of bleaching, as well as how to recognize it in the water and/or photographs.

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