Underwater Umbrellas Shield Coral Reefs from Bleaching
Scientists invent underwater umbrellas to protect coral reefs
Scientists tested underwater umbrellas in the Florida Keys that cut light exposure by 60% and reduced bleaching in brain corals during a record marine heatwave. Some shaded corals even regained their color. Lead author Karen Neely says the design works for small areas like individual high-priority corals or nurseries, and larger trials are already underway.
The particular structures that we deployed are good for smaller areas, like individual high-priority corals, coral nurseries, or small outplant areas. But new engineering ideas could make it suitable for larger reef areas.