Resurrecting Indonesia's embattled coral reefsーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Blast Fishing: A destructive fishing method involving underwater explosions to stun or kill fish.
• Coral Restoration: The process of repairing and rebuilding damaged coral reefs.
• Reef Stars: Specially designed metal frames used as a foundation for growing and attaching coral fragments.
• Symbiotic Phytoplankton: Microscopic marine algae that live within coral tissues and provide nutrients through photosynthesis.
• Artificial Reef: A man-made structure placed on the seafloor to encourage marine life and create habitat.
• Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Coral Reef Destruction and Restoration Efforts in Indonesia

Indonesia, renowned for its exceptionally diverse coral reefs, has also been severely impacted by blast fishing, a highly destructive practice. This summary details the efforts of islanders on Bang Lumpo Island to reverse the damage caused by decades of this illegal fishing method.

The Devastation of Blast Fishing

Blast fishing involves detonating explosives underwater, which shatters coral structures and kills or stuns fish. Despite being banned in Indonesia since 2004, the practice has persisted, leaving behind barren, lifeless seascapes with shattered corals.

Bang Lumpo Island: A Community's Commitment to Restoration

Bang Lumpo Island, with a population of over 5,000, relies heavily on fishing and seafood processing, with approximately 80% of its inhabitants engaged in these industries. Recognizing the critical importance of healthy coral reefs for both the environment and their livelihoods, a group of islanders has taken initiative.

The "Reef Star" Methodology

Shafru Harij Joe, head of a coral restoration organization, founded his group five years ago with ten other islanders concerned about the impact of dynamite fishing. Their primary method involves using specially designed metal frames, known as "reef stars," to cultivate and propagate coral.

• Design and Function: These metal frames are approximately 90 cm in diameter and star-shaped when viewed from above. They are designed to elevate young corals off the seafloor.
• Growth Enhancement: By being elevated, the corals benefit from increased nutrient-rich water flow and greater sunlight exposure. This allows them to grow at an accelerated rate, estimated to be 1.5 times the normal rate. Corals feed on plankton and rely on nutrients from symbiotic phytoplankton, which perform photosynthesis.
• Propagation Process: Once the coral fragments reach a sufficient size, they are cut and attached to nearby reef stars already placed on the seabed. Each frame can accommodate up to 15 coral cuttings. This process effectively creates the foundation for an artificial reef on the remnants of blast-damaged corals.
• Maintenance and Monitoring: The organization's members conduct monthly visits to monitor coral growth and manually remove any accumulated algae or debris.

Scientific Validation and Ecosystem Benefits

Marine scientist Shiaudin Yusf confirms the suitability of reef stars for regenerating areas devastated by dynamite fishing. He highlights that the stable foundation provided by the reef star frames promotes coral growth. Furthermore, the spaces within the frames offer shelter for fish and serve as spawning grounds, contributing to the development of a richer ecosystem.

Personal Journeys of Atonement

The restoration efforts are driven by individuals with deep personal connections to the issue. Kiki, a member of the group, abandoned blast fishing approximately 20 years ago when the ban was implemented. His decision was influenced by witnessing other fishers injure themselves and by his own safety concerns. He now earns a living by fishing and processing sea cucumbers and expresses a strong desire to "make amends for all the environmental damage I caused." He acknowledges the significant blast fishing activities of past generations and his own.

Tangible Results and Future Aspirations

The impact of the reef star initiative is becoming evident. In areas where reef stars were deployed five years ago, coral branches have grown significantly, obscuring the metal frames. Schools of fish have also returned to these restored sites. To date, the organization has installed 200 reef stars, covering an area of approximately 0.8 hectares, which is equivalent to the size of one soccer field.

Shafru and his colleagues are committed to continuing their work, aiming to restore all destroyed coral reefs. Their dream is to "restore all the destroyed coral reefs" and they plan to persist with their activities to achieve this goal.

Global Applicability and Conclusion

The effectiveness of reef stars is not limited to Indonesia. Marine scientist Shiaudin Yusf notes their successful application in other regions, including Australia and Saudi Arabia, suggesting their potential for wider use in coral restoration projects globally. The dedication and collaborative spirit of the Bang Lumpo islanders in correcting past environmental damage and rejuvenating their marine environment are presented as a moving and promising example.