By Gimel Morley, Coral Aquarist Manager

Reef Revival: The Bahamas' First Coral Gene Bank is About to Make History

The dream of building the first coral gene bank in The Bahamas is no longer just a vision. It is becoming a reality.

As the Coral Aquarist Manager standing at the heart of this project, my team and I have witnessed firsthand the immense dedication and innovation it takes to create a facility capable of safeguarding the future of our reefs. Every pipe laid, every tank calibrated, and every system designed has been carefully crafted to provide a sanctuary for corals, a place where threatened species will not only survive but thrive. This is more than just a job. It is a mission: to preserve the genetic diversity of our reefs and equip scientists, conservationists, and communities with the tools to restore what has been lost.

Coral specimens for the gene bank — Coral specimens being prepared for the gene bank's collection.

Now, as we prepare to open our doors, the anticipation is electric. Soon, these tanks will house corals rescued from the frontlines of climate change, growing under carefully controlled conditions that mimic the rhythms of the ocean. We are part of a growing international community pushing the boundaries of aquaculture. The Atlantis Blue Project Foundation has been instrumental in making this facility a reality to ensure the survival of these fragile marine ecosystems.

Gene bank research equipment — Research equipment and preparations underway at the gene bank facility.

Coral gene banks are increasingly recognized as an essential tool in the fight against reef decline. According to the NOAA Coral Disease and Health Consortium, Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease alone has now spread to reefs in 18 countries and territories, making preservation efforts like this gene bank more urgent than ever.

Interior of the coral gene bank facility — Inside the coral gene bank facility, where tanks and life support systems are being commissioned.

This facility represents hope, not just for The Bahamas, but for coral reefs worldwide. To stand here, at the dawn of something this significant, is an honor. I cannot wait for our Bahamian community and young aspiring marine scientists to witness what we have been part of building.