Issue 109 - June 2024

Map the Giants: Seek Out The Last Monumental Corals

Climate change and anthropogenic pressures threaten coral reefs around the world, causing biodiversity loss and a decrease in coral cover. With the current bleaching event, just a few years after the mass event of 2016, even more reefs are at risk and questions arise about how the coral reefs of the future will look. It is estimated that over 50% of coral reefs have disappeared since the 70s, and their survival is at high risk in the next decades. Are there organisms that have been overlooked and now need focus? This is the question Map the Giants, a project by the University of Milano-Bicocca, is now addressing.

When looking at and studying this ecosystem, we recognize its incredible biodiversity with hundreds of coral species being its main foundation. With different growth forms, shapes, colours, and sizes, corals have been fascinating scientists and people for many years and will continue to do so for the years to come. The last decades have seen raising concerns over the ability of future generations to experience and visit reefs around the world the same way that their grandparents have done. Surely, to date, numerous locations have seen a shift in dominant forms, from scleractinian corals to rubble fields or algae-dominated areas.

Figure 1 – Coral Bleaching, American Samoa: Before (healthy Dec 2014), during bleaching (Feb 2015), and after (dead August 2015) – Credit: The Ocean Agency

Worldwide the most impacted species have generally been fast-growing ones, that on one hand are particularly susceptible but, on the other hand, act almost as pioneering species, being able to recolonize areas in relatively short times. Fast-growing species can increase in size by over 30 cm in length every year, but some corals grow less than 1 cm every year. All of them can potentially grow forever.

In fact, with suitable conditions, coral colonies could grow indefinitely, reaching sheer sizes and several hundred years.

Many of us have surely heard of Big Momma, the huge coral colony found in American Samoa, measuring over 6m in height and 41 in circumference, estimated to be around 500 years of age. It is part of a National Marine Sanctuary, where the reef hosts numerous other very large colonies. How did they make it, whilst other corals suffered? Is Big Momma a unique colony in the marine world or are there many more?

Momma, American Samoa's giant. — Figure 2 – Big Momma, American Samoa’s giant. Photo credit: Wendy Cover / NOAA

As marine scientists, or passionate divers and snorkellers during our reef explorations, we surely remember that time when a giant Manta Ray crossed unexpectedly our path, or a huge turtle, a whale, or a shark… those iconic species, that we will never forget.

But if we now stop for one second, I am sure that at least once in our lifetime we have passed a very large coral colony, possibly not realizing that it was likely a centennial organism. A GIANT coral.

They are the marine equivalent of sequoias, the most impressive trees on Earth, and like them, they hold unique information on climate, environment, and biodiversity.

With more frequent bleaching events and a declared coral crisis, we risk losing even these GIANTS, those that have grown just few a centimetres every year and yet have reached metres in width. The most resistant, old, and charismatic corals – giant corals- represent ideal tools for tracing past oceanographic transformations and modelling responses to future environmental changes.

Furthermore, their resistance to current stressors requires in-depth studies to understand what makes these animals so resilient. How many giant corals are there? Where are they? What can we do to protect them? Are they the key to coral reefs’ resilience? This is how Map the Giant was born, just by looking at organisms we had seen many times, but for once, from a different perspective, realizing the inestimable value that single giant coral colonies have.

Map the Giant is a project that uses citizen science as a tool to locate the largest coral colonies in the world and relies on a network of scientists from every corner of the planet to study them. The project also aims to increase the general public’s awareness of corals and turn them into monuments. Regardless of the current jurisdiction behind it, we aim for them to be considered heroes of the oceans and survivors in our suffering reefs.

The project is coordinated by researchers and students of the University of Milano-Bicocca through MaRHE Center (Marine Research and Higher Education Center) which has been operating in the Maldives since 2009 and has, since then, conducted numerous researches on various fields from coral reef ecology, to sociology, and sustainable tourism.

Although the dedicated website welcomes entries from all over the world, the first records have come from the Maldives and include colonies with circumferences that exceed 50 metres. A variety of species, from Porites sp., to Heliopora coerulea, to Psammocora sp., and Pavona sp. have been located, measured, and sometimes even digitally reconstructed through photogrammetry. Citizen scientists are our eyes on the world and they are closely monitoring the impacts of the current bleaching event on the giants and some have started to show signs of paling. Will they make it?

*_{^{Figure 3 – Giant Porites sp. from the Maldives before and during the bleaching. Photo Cecilia Maccanti}}*

We have received an entry from 2014 from Micronesia, a giant Diploastrea heliopora from Kosrae. Will it still be there? We heard of a huge Pavona from Japan, how is it doing?

Map the Giants wants to map giant colonies and wants everyone to know about them. If we didn’t even know they existed, how are we supposed to take care of them?

A correspondence piece on Nature highlighted the potential of the citizen-science-based project to find and protect these giants. “With reefs threatened across the globe, finding the giants will be a race against the clock. With a coordinated global effort, we stand a better chance of protecting them.”

The goal is to start from the Maldives to then expand to other parts of the world. The project is now raising funds through a crowdfunding campaign to conduct a scientific expedition to remote areas of the Maldives and collect even more data on GIANT CORALS.

YOUR HELP IS THE KEY!

If you want to support the project you can contribute to the crowdfunding campaign.
If you have seen any giant, please report it to mapthegiants!

About Authors

Dr. Simone Montano, the creator and promoter of “Map the Giants”, is a researcher at the University of Milano-Bicocca who has been working on projects in the Maldives since 2009. His research has focused on symbiosis in tropical organisms, coral diseases, coral reef restoration, and other aspects of tropical marine ecology.

Federica Siena is a PhD student in Marine Science, Technology, and Management, she worked in the Maldives for seven years focusing on marine environmental education and CSR projects involving local communities. Her current research focuses on coral reef conservation and restoration through citizen science.

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Issue 109 - June 2024

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SEVENSEAS Beach Cleanup & Coral Restoration Events in Marine Protected Areas

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SEVENSEAS Media conducted two impactful events in Krabi, Thailand. The Monthly Beach Cleanup Event at Ao Sew Beach saw enthusiastic volunteers remove a staggering 150.6 kilograms of trash, underscoring the pressing issue of marine pollution and the significance of sustainable practices like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. The organization stressed the importance of proper waste management to protect coastal ecosystems.

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You can either make a direct financial contribution to SEVENSEAS Media through The Ocean Foundation website or connect us with potential donors by sending an email to Giacomo Abrusci, our Editor-in-Chief.

The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here.

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here.

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Issue 109 - June 2024

Abundance Studios in association with DNA Films Announces Production of Guy Harvey Documentary

Orlando, FL – Abundance Studios, in association with DNA Films, is thrilled to announce the commencement of filming for a groundbreaking documentary featuring world-renowned marine wildlife artist and conservationist, Dr. Guy Harvey. This documentary promises to delve deep into Harvey’s life, his passion for ocean conservation, the development of his diverse business portfolio, and his remarkable contributions to marine science and art.

Dr. Guy Harvey, whose artistry has captivated audiences worldwide, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “I am honoured and excited to share my journey and commitment to marine conservation through this documentary.”

Directed by 22-time Emmy award-winning filmmaker Nick Nanton, the documentary aims to provide a portrait of Harvey’s life, from his childhood fascination with the sea to the iconic Guy Harvey fishing t-shirt to his pioneering efforts in marine conservation. Nanton shared his vision for the film, saying, “Guy Harvey’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of conservation. He has combined his unique talent for art to bring a spotlight to the world of conservation. Through this documentary, we hope to inspire audiences to look at how they can unite their gifts with their passions to create positive change in the world as well as join us in preserving our oceans for future generations.”

The production of the documentary, which will begin filming soon in Grand Cayman, is made possible by the generous support of funding from Abundance Studios’ Executive Producers Coach Pete D’Arruda, Chuck McDowell, Didi Wong, Chris Wiser, Kevin Hodes, Dr. Wayne Pernell, and Pat Ziemer, and Producers Craig Lack, Julie Meates, Dr. Teri Rouse, Fred Rouse, Jennifer Perri, Richard Tyler, Michael Reza, Gary Marriage, George McCranie, Charlie Epstein, Ryan Chute, Paul Peters, Bryan Gallinger, Frank Astorino, and Kathleen Forrest. This cause-based studio is committed to raising awareness around critical issues the world is facing and the most inspiring people in the world. “The Guy Harvey documentary checks both of those boxes,” added Nanton.

DNA Films in association with Abundance Studios invites media representatives to join them in celebrating the launch of this landmark documentary as they embark on this journey to shed light on the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr. Guy Harvey.

About Guy Harvey:

With a focused mission to better understand and conserve the ocean environment, the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF) collaborates with local, national and international organizations to conduct scientific research and provides funding to affiliated researchers who share this objective. The GHF also develops and hosts cutting-edge educational programs that help educators to foster the next era of marine conservationists, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from a properly balanced ocean ecosystem. For more information, visit www.GuyHarveyFoundation.org. Follow the GHF on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GuyHarveyOcean, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GuyHarveyOcean, or connect on Instagram at www.instagram.com/GuyHarveyOcean.

About Abundance Studios®

Abundance Studios® is a cause-based studio committed to raising awareness around critical issues society is facing as well as sharing the stories of the most inspiring people in the world. With a commitment to excellence in storytelling and cinematic quality, the studio strives to inform, inspire, and drive positive change through its films.

About the Guy Harvey Foundation:

Since 1986, Guy Harvey has created marine-inspired apparel that blends performance, comfort and durability. Started by marine biologist and artist Dr. Guy Harvey, the brand is committed to making products that contribute to ocean conservation and marine education. Guy Harvey continuously implements innovative, sustainable manufacturing practices. The company uses REPREVE polyester and new THREADCYCLED™ technology (repurposing 100% of textile waste into upcycled yarn), powers its manufacturing facility with solar panels and purifies 100% of the water used in the dying and steaming process. Guy Harvey is focused on making responsible apparel that consumers can feel good about wearing. Additionally, a portion of all proceeds of officially licensed Guy Harvey products goes to the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF), which conducts scientific research and hosts educational programs aimed at conserving the marine environment. To learn more about Guy Harvey apparel, please visit www.guyharvey.com.

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Issue 109 - June 2024

Biden Administration Misses Opportunity to Reduce Single-Use Plastics

President Biden must do more to reduce the government’s purchasing of single-use plastics

The General Services Administration (GSA) announced its final rule on reducing single-use plastic packaging. The GSA is the federal agency that oversees government procurement. The U.S. government is the world’s largest purchaser of goods and services, and decisions by the federal government can have a global impact on the plastic pollution crisis.

An estimated 33 billion pounds of plastic enter the oceans every year, including single-use items such as plastic bottles, packaging, takeout food containers, and bags. With the GSA’s release of a narrow rule, Oceana calls on the Biden administration to move forward with additional policies to reduce single-use plastic packaging and products and incentivize refillable and reusable alternatives.

“This is a missed opportunity. This rule can’t be the end, this has to be the first step toward greater action to reduce the federal government’s purchasing of single-use plastics,” said Christy Leavitt, Oceana’s plastics campaign director. “President Biden must do more to address the growing plastic pollution crisis that is already harming our oceans, climate, health, and communities. The U.S. government’s immense purchasing power can play an important role in reducing plastic pollution in the U.S. and around the world. Moving forward, the Biden administration must set strong policies to reduce plastic pollution at the source and support reuse and refill.”

The Biden administration committed in 2022 to phase out single-use plastic products on public lands managed by the Department of the Interior, including Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Acadia, and all other national parks. According to a national poll released by Oceana in February 2023, an overwhelming 82% of U.S. voters across party lines support reducing the federal government’s use of single-use plastic — nearly 85% of Democrats and 77% of Republicans.

In February 2024, Oceana submitted comments to the GSA as part of the public comment period on the proposed rule and delivered more than 6,900 petition signatures calling on the federal government to reduce the purchase of single-use plastics.

Background

Plastic has been found in every corner of the world and has turned up in drinking water, beer, salt, honey, and more. It’s also one of the greatest contributors to climate change. In fact, if plastic were a country, it would be the fifth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world. With plastic production growing at a rapid rate, increased amounts of plastic can be expected to flood our blue planet with devastating consequences.

A 2020 Oceana report revealed evidence of nearly 1,800 animals from 40 different species swallowing or becoming entangled in plastic in U.S. waters between 2009 and early 2020. Of those animals, a staggering 88% were from species listed as endangered or threatened with extinction under the Endangered Species Act.

Less than 6% of plastic in the U.S. is recycled, yet the plastics industry continues to tout recycling as a panacea while pushing new plastic products onto the market. Companies need to dramatically reduce the production and use of unnecessary single-use plastic, provide plastic-free choices, and develop systems that refill and reuse packaging and foodware. Elected officials must enact policies to ensure they do so.

In February 2023, Oceana released the results of a nationwide poll that showed broad bipartisan concern about single-use plastics and support for reducing both the production and use of these products and increasing the use of reusable packaging and foodware. Included among the key findings:

83% of American voters are concerned about single-use plastic products
73% support a pause in building new plastic production facilities
82% support reducing the federal government’s use of single-use plastic

Polling was conducted by the nonpartisan polling company Ipsos, which surveyed 1,000 American adults from across the U.S. in December 2022.

To learn more about Oceana’s campaign to stop plastic pollution, please visit usa.oceana.org/plastics.

About Oceana

Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one-quarter of the world’s wild fish catch. With more than 300 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, oil and plastic pollution, and the killing of threatened species like turtles, whales, and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results. A restored ocean means that 1 billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world. Visit Oceana.org to learn more.