Underwater Paradise in Peril

Reef is a photographic book by Scubazoo that leads the reader on a journey through the highly sensitive and threatened ecosystems of coral reefs. Coral reefs are home to thousands of fish, as well as algae, sponges, and mollusks. Photos of coral reefs are displayed in ways that have rarely been seen by humans. Reefs from around the globe are featured, including Southeast Asia, the Red Sea, and Hawaii. Quotes and captions throughout the book give background information about the plants and animals that live in this amazing world of its own. Pictures depict the life cycle of coral reefs, and the countless creatures that depend on their success for survival. The book tells how our coral reefs are being destroyed and the importance of saving this magnificent underwater world.

The Aquarium at Fort Fisher has also taken efforts to help reflourish these fascinating ecosystems. Aquarist Mike Suchy has created an extraordinary project: a coral propagation and holding system behind Aquarium walls. By snipping fragments of existing coral, mounting it on small disks, and submerging it under water with a light source, Suchy has begun to “grow” coral. Although the coral grows slowly, maybe only an inch a year, and can be challenging at times, Suchy’s hard work will allow the Aquarium to use less wild stock in the exhibits.

Suchy’s project and the book Reef are excellent examples of people trying to protect our underwater gardens. Help save these marine paradises by reading Reef or learning more about the Aquarium’s coral project.

*Information from http://www.coral.org/.

Underwater Garden

For Mike Suchy, aquarist at the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher, gardening is a passion. His love for growing things and strong interest in coral reefs spawned a new project: a coral propagation and holding system within the aquarium.

By snipping fragments of existing coral, mounting it on small disks, and submerging it under water with a light source, Suchy has begun to “grow” coral. “It’s much like taking a cutting from a plant and potting it to grow more,” says Suchy. Growth rates vary depending on variety, but tend to be slow, sometimes only a few inches per year. Temperature, pH, and salinity are kept constant. A moving light hangs above the tank. “A moving light source is more natural and light is of paramount importance to corals,” explains Suchy. Reef-building corals contain symbiotic algae within their tissues that convert light energy into a food source, which helps provide sustenance for the coral colony.

Mike Suchy has a degree in biology from University of Nebraska. He has been at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher for 15 years.