The art and science of reef restoration: Ship groundings are among the most destructive factors causing significant localized damage on coral reefs

Coral reefs are changing dramatically, particularly those in the Florida Keys and the Caribbean, due to many types of disturbance. These include hurricanes, diseases, over-fishing, sea urchins and pollution. The most damaging is caused by ship groundings, leading to the direct loss of corals, fracturing and crushing. However the damage is avoidable, and can be repaired. Most reef restoration is based on legal precendents, rather than science, but some advanced restoration methods have been developed within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.