Learn all about Sol Coral, an invasive coral from the Brazilian coast, and understand its ecological impacts and how to contribute to its preservation.
Sun coral appears in several parts of the coast and attracts the attention of experts and fishermen. They have been concerned about the impact on Brazilian coasts since their arrival in the early 2000s. This species probably appeared in ship ballast or attached to international ships. It quickly spread to the southeastern and southern regions of the country.
The intense color and shapes of the solar coral resemble real submerged carpets. Thus, it occupies areas previously dominated by native species. The marine ecosystem suffers directly. The invasion process of this species involves research into the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of artisanal fishing in several Brazilian states.
What is solar coral?
The sun coral includes species of the genus Tubastréenotably Tubastraea tagusensis and Tubastraea coccinea, native to the Indo-Pacific. Unlike classic reef corals, it does not depend on symbiosis with algae. Therefore, solar coral tolerates environmental changes more easily and colonizes degraded areas.
These organisms form large colonies on rocks, ports, oil platforms and man-made wrecks. Because of this ecological plasticity and rapid asexual reproduction, the sun coral is of even greater concern to scientists and authorities. Thus, it is today one of the most problematic exotic marine species. In addition, the absence of natural predators favors its expansion.
How does solar coral affect the Brazilian coast?
Sun coral competes directly with native organisms, such as sponges, sea squirts and native corals. It competes for physical space and resources with these species. This reduces local biodiversity. The long coastal strip between Rio de Janeiro and Santa Catarina has become a critical area. Monitoring of the attacker’s progress remains constant.
Additionally, the indirect impact affects the food chain. When native species decline, fish and other animals can suffer. Research suggests economic losses from fishing, as fishing grounds tend to migrate. For example, this occurs when solar coral covers beds of commercially valuable molluscs or crustaceans.
What measures can combat the spread of solar coral?
Environmental agencies, universities and fishing communities work together. They seek to contain the expansion of this exotic species using several strategies. Among the forms of management are:
- Manual deletion: Qualified divers remove colonies attached to submerged surfaces. Although it presents challenges, this approach ensures the elimination of the largest clusters.
- Continuous monitoring: Frequent recording of new invaded areas allows rapid and localized control actions.
- Environmental education: Campaigns aimed at fishermen, tourists and shipping companies explain the risks and teach ways to avoid accidental transport of these organisms. Communities thus become important agents in the fight against solar coral.
Complete eradication of sun coral requires great effort. Small fragments can now spawn new colonies. Control must therefore continue, with permanent actions and continuous monitoring.
Why is it important to take care of the marine balance?
Maintaining the balance of marine communities guarantees fundamental ecosystem services. Climate regulation, food supply and the preservation of the natural landscape depend on this balance. The challenge posed by the solar coral highlights the importance of integrated public policies, constant scientific research and coordinated actions between society, government and the private sector. If everyone collaborates, the answer to the problem becomes stronger.
Protecting coastal environments requires collective commitment. The Brazilian coastline plays an essential role in the global conservation of biodiversity. In this way, actions become more effective. Working together can contain the spread of invasive corals and preserve native ecosystems for future generations.
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