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NewsWUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)September 12, 2026Hillsborough County

Scientists Spawn Endangered Elkhorn Coral in Key Largo Nursery

Photo: WUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)

Scientists spawned the largest collection of Florida's most endangered elkhorn coral in a Key Largo nursery in late August and early September. Thousands of coral larvae are currently being raised in laboratories across the state to help revive North America's only barrier reef.

Coral Reef RestorationEndangered SpeciesMarine BiologyEnvironmental Conservation
Read the full story at WUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)

Why It Matters

The survival and reproduction of endangered elkhorn coral directly impacts the ecological health and structural integrity of North America's only barrier reef.

Key Facts

  • The largest collection of Florida's most endangered elkhorn coral spawned in a Key Largo nursery in late August and early September.
  • Thousands of baby corals are currently being raised in laboratories across Florida.
  • Scientists hope these efforts will help revive elkhorn coral on North America's only barrier reef.

Who's Mentioned

locationNorth America“Location of the barrier reef being revived.”locationKey Largo“Location of the coral nursery where the spawning took place.”