Aquarium Connections – Coral Restoration

Aquarium Connections is proud to be pioneering the design and build of coral restoration systems, working alongside leading coral scientists and philanthropists all over the world. Through meticulous development of our ex situ aquatic systems, we have created and continue to develop a range of specialised systems, this includes fully functional coral spawning labs to support coral restoration projects.

Our coral restoration systems are available in stock configuration for installation within your existing facility or a complete stand alone self contained lab. A bespoke service is available to ensure you’re able to have the coral restoration system that best fits your needs and restoration goals. Our novel V shaped coral grow out raceway design, can also be integrated to provide an ideal land based environment for micro fragmentation or grow out of juvenile spawned coral.

Off-the-shelf coral spawning system

We have advanced our original coral spawning design, initially published in the scientific journal Ecology and Evolution, by incorporating the latest technology available. Our systems are available in two parts: the broodstock conditioning/spawning system and the coral embryo rearing/grow-out system.

Each system features cladding and sliding doors to block external light. A detachable canopy, which when added during spawning season, allows for complete control over the coral spawning schedule, whether it be morning, afternoon, or night.

All of our systems operate using the Triton Method, featuring a sump with an algae bed, and includes all the high-spec equipment necessary for optimal performance.

Self contained coral spawning lab

We provide state of the art, fully-equipped lab systems built into robust shipping containers. These help to optimise coral restoration efforts due to them being portable, durable and versatile. These can include up to three or four separate spawning systems, providing flexibility for multiple spawning events throughout the year. Additional options include an integrated quarantine tank system and recruit grow-out systems.

Key features include a built-in reverse osmosis water system and comprehensive climate control featuring air conditioning and a dehumidifier. The self contained lab is designed for easy relocation. Simply connect to a water supply and electricity at your desired location, and you’re ready to start your coral spawning and restoration program. The sturdy shipping container is engineered to be nearly hurricane-proof, the lab can be secured and moved to safe storage, ensuring minimal damage and continued operation.

Bespoke coral spawning system

If our standard coral spawning lab or off-the-shelf options do not meet your needs, we offer custom-designed systems tailored to your specific requirements. Our bespoke systems maximise performance and output within your available space.

We have successfully designed custom systems for numerous high-profile clients. We can create these based on your detailed specifications and project goals, with the option of an onsite visit to better understand your exact requirements. Our process includes an initial design review for your feedback, allowing for any tweaks or additions before proceeding with the build. Our bespoke systems provide the same high quality elements as our standard options, with any additional custom design aspects you require.

V-Shaped coral grow out raceways

Our V-shaped raceways are an innovative coral grow-out system designed for optimal growth and efficiency of juvenile coral. Corals spawned in our standard systems are transferred here to grow to their desired size. This modular and expandable system adapts to the space and coral output needs of any restoration project. This design is also perfect for micro fragmentation practices.

The unique V-shaped design minimises sedimentation stress and reduces juvenile coral mortality, while ensuring optimal water flow. Inspired by the natural flow of winding rivers, our system moves water more efficiently than traditional land-based coral grow-out systems.

Each 2-metre section of the raceway holds 10 maternity trays, with each tray accommodating 126 coral settlement plugs, totalling 1,260 plugs per section. The modular design allows for easy expansion, supporting up to 30,000 coral plugs in a single system.

Enhance your coral restoration efforts with our efficient and scalable V-shaped raceway system.

Coral scientists across 12 different countries, are using Aquarium Connections designed and built coral spawning systems and they are taking their research to the next level. There are now over 70 systems being used worldwide.

You can see some of the results via the following published papers: