Coral Spawn Expected Over Next Few Days

The Department of Environmental Protection today [Aug 2] advised that boaters and beach goers may see coral spawn on the surface of the ocean during the next few days. Coral spawn, a sign the coral reefs are reproducing, is usually pink/salmon in colour and it may be observed in large patches on different parts of the platform.

The corals usually spawn seven to eight days after the full moon which occurred July 26, 2010. The corals will generally spawn for three days, although some species may spawn for longer.

A spokesman said that the coral spawn is a natural phenomenon and not to be confused with pollution and is not related to the BP Oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, saying “Members of the public are advised that the spawn is nothing to be concerned about and is actually a good sign as the coral reefs are reproducing and the spawn will go on to form new corals around the island.”

Last year the reddish spawn was very visible, prompting locals to fear some form of environmental disaster, with the Aquarium, Department of Environmental Protection and the Bio Station all receiving calls from concerned citizens, when in fact the spawning is a good sign of the reefs being healthy. You can see a photo of 2008′s Bermuda coral spawn here on Bermudabream blog.

The video below, from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, explains coral spawning:

We will be keeping our eyes out, and if anyone sees any coral spawn please feel free to send us a photo to share with our readers.

#BermudaMarine #CoralReefs

Category: All, Environment, News