Dr. Ofril Johan from BRIN delivered a comprehensive overview of coral transplantation efforts across Indonesia, tracing developments from early research to large-scale implementation. His presentation highlighted innovations in methodology, lessons from field applications, and insights into the ecological, technical, and social factors influencing restoration outcomes.
From Research to Community-Based Application
The coral transplantation journey began with small-scale scientific studies. Dr. Ofril emphasized how techniques pioneered in research, such as the use of electrified metal substrates and wire-linked frameworks, have evolved into methods accessible to communities and exporters.
Particularly notable is the introduction of PRPB-KKP technology, which enabled coral farmers and ornamental exporters to cultivate corals without harvesting from the wild. This transition has fostered reef stewardship while reducing pressure on natural coral populations.
Several techniques have been tested in Indonesia, each with distinct advantages and challenges.
- Electrified substrates (Bio-Rock): Accelerate coral attachment and growth but incur high costs.
- Wire-link substrate systems: Cost-effective and efficient, widely used.
- PVC racks and iron racks: Flexible structures for various coral sizes.
- Cement blocks and slabs: Provide stability but can be labor-intensive.
Why Monitoring Matters
Monitoring was essential to detect and respond to threats such as coral predators (e.g., Drupella sp.) and interspecies competition. In one observation period beginning in November 2000, Acropora donei exhibited vulnerability—first from algal overgrowth and later from spatial competition with A. acuminata and disease issue: the Black Band Disease (BBD), caused by bacteria and cyanobacteria, affected coral health and highlighted the need for balanced ecosystems and substrate-to-coral size ratios.
Dr. Ofril’s session underscored that coral transplantation is both a technical and ecological endeavor. Success depends not only on methods but also on long-term observation, species interactions, and disease management. His retrospective provides a valuable reference for future initiatives that seek to scale up coral restoration in Indonesia’s vast and diverse reef systems.