An outbreak of an epizootic coral disease, known as stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD), is severely impacting coral reef ecosystems in the Atlantic-Caribbean region. While the disease was first identified on Florida’s reefs in 2014, it has now spread to nine countries and territories in the Caribbean. Coral reef scientists and practitioners in the affected locations have been working to develop and apply existing and new intervention techniques in an effort to halt the spread of the disease, maintain reef structure and function, and protect rare species. Hear from leading experts on their experiences with different SCTLD treatment approaches as well as exciting new efforts to develop alternative treatment options using natural ingredients and probiotics. Presenters include Dr. Karen Neely from Nova Southeastern University, Dr. Marilyn Brandt from the University of the Virgin Islands, Mike Favero from Ocean Alchemists LLC, and Dr. Valerie Paul from the Smithsonian Institution.
Resources:
- Panelist Answers to Questions from the Webinar
- Reef Resilience Network - Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease
- Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) - Coral Disease Outbreak
- Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) - Florida Coral Disease Outbreak
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary - Florida Reef Tract Coral Disease Outbreak
- Virgin Islands Coral Disease Advisory Committee (VI-CDAC) - Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease in the Virgin Islands
This webinar was co-hosted by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on behalf of the Caribbean Cooperation Team of the Florida SCTLD Response Effort and the Reef Resilience Network.
