Let´s Grow Some Coral!
Land Based (Ex -Situ) Coral Nursery
Pa´Ti Mar is the only land-based coral nursery in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Our facility features six tanks dedicated to cultivating two key coral species that form the foundation of our reefs — Mountainous Star Coral (Orbicella faveolata) and Elkhorn Coral (Acropora palmata).
Our tanks collectively hold between 4,000 and 5,000 coral fragments, supporting the restoration and strengthening of local reef ecosystems. This land-based growing method accelerates coral growth and allows precise control of water quality, leading to higher survival and success rates.
Most importantly, this approach lets us protect our coral from Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) — a fast-spreading, lethal disease that has devastated coral populations across the Caribbean and impacted over 95% of Florida’s reefs. By working on land, we safeguard our corals from this ongoing threat and give them the best possible start before returning them to the ocean.
Meet the Coral
We are focusing on cultivating and replanting the Elkhorn & Mountainous star coral. Both are classified as critically endangered species and are protected under The Endangered Species Act. They are both indigenous to the area and have a high success rate in replanting. These two species of corals are framework-building corals that contribute the most to reef buildup, which leads to the protection of our island’s beautiful coastlines.
Elkhorn
The Elkhorn coral gets its name from the structure it creates, which resembles elk horns. This species is often found in high-surf and relatively shallow areas. The height and width of the coral are determined by wave height in the area and the accessibility of light at the base.
Mountainous star coral
The Mountainous star coral gets its name because the structure it creates resembles small mountain peaks, and when it closes, the grooves of its polyps resemble a star. This species is often found in relatively shallow areas and can grow large but at slow rates.
