Bringing dead coral reefs back to life with art?

Climate change and pollution are devastating coral reefs worldwide. Artist Marco Barotti has an unusual idea for bringing life back to dead reefs: 3D-printed sculptures and sound.

CultureEurope

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CultureEuropehttps://p.dw.com/p/5MsXd

Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. Although they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor, they provide a habitat for around a quarter of all marine species. At the same time, they provide food, income and coastal protection for millions of people. But climate change, marine heatwaves, overfishing and pollution are putting these fragile ecosystems under enormous pressure. Experts warn that around 90% of coral reefs could be destroyed by 2050.

Media artist Marco Barotti is therefore taking an unusual approach: Using artificial, 3D-printed reefs and speakers, he plays the sounds of healthy coral reefs underwater. The idea is that many marine species use these soundscapes to find their way around. Studies show that the sounds of healthy reefs can attract fish and encourage marine life to return to damaged habitats. This form of sound therapy cannot stop climate change, but it could help coral reefs recover more quickly and attract new inhabitants.

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