Coral Reef Restoration & Research

Healthy coral reefs are vital to the peninsula’s marine ecosystems and Guanahacabibes has been well studied for the corals’ stronger resistance to bleaching and ability to recover faster than similar coral species in the nearby waters of the Florida Keys. . A notable collaborative effort between park biologists and the National Aquarium of Cuba, as well as international partners, focuses on coral nurseries and assisted reproduction techniques to restore threatened reef habitats.

Participants in these programs study the life cycles and vulnerabilities of key coral species, such as Acropora palmata and Acropora cervicornis, and help maintain coral nurseries where fragments are grown and later outplanted to damaged reef areas. This work not only enhances reef resilience but also trains the next generation of marine stewards in hands-on restoration methods. 

As a visiting diver or snorkeler, you’ll learn straight from the local marine biologists while also caring for the coral nurseries – and see firsthand the plunging walls where coral has respawned and teams with fish life and a healthy shark population.