Florida scientists bring endangered elkhorn coral ashore fearing another heatwave could drive it to extinction

Researchers at the University of Miami moved 30 fragments of endangered elkhorn coral from offshore nurseries to a land-based hatchery.

The emergency relocation was driven by forecasts of another intense marine heatwave in 2026, following devastating bleaching in 2023 and 2024.

Elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) is critically endangered and listed under the US Endangered Species Act.

The coral fragments were wrapped in wet bubble wrap, transported in insulated coolers, and placed into controlled tanks at the university's hatchery.

Scientists aim to preserve the remaining genetic diversity of elkhorn coral until ocean conditions are safe for restoration.