The Secret Life of Corals

Overview

When we think of coral reefs we tend to think of beautiful rock-like structures teaming with colorful fish and other marine life. But what exactly are the “corals” in the coral reef? What are these creatures that start out very small and then have the ability to grow large enough to be seen from outer space? Are they animals, plants, microbes, or rocks?

With humor and clarity, David Vaughan takes us on an incredible journey through the secret life of corals to answer these questions, and more. He shines a light on the unlikely partners that comprise actual corals and reveals the curious ways they live, grow, reproduce, protect themselves, and defend their turf. In addition, Vaughan helps us understand why corals are so important for all life—both on land and in the sea. This generational title clearly explains the most pressing environmental threats corals face today, as well as new coral restoration practices that provide hope for their future.

This book is a compelling and fun read and is for everyone interested in the marvelous workings of the natural world. Dive in and prepare to be amazed!

Reviews

"An amazing journey through their hidden world." —Philippe Cousteau

“Fantastic! This book reveals how remarkable and spectacular corals truly are. While coral reefs are now under constant threat from climate change, Dave Vaughan has illuminated a path forward—one that offers real hope for corals and all life that depends on them.” —Jeff Orlowski-Yang, Filmmaker, Director of Chasing Coral, Chasing Ice, and The Social Dilemma

“Dave Vaughan has opened up a whole new perspective on the awe and wonder of the corals that reside in the ‘inner space’ beneath the sea. The significance of each coral polyp shines the light on the need for us to all live like crewmates, not passengers, here on Spaceship Earth.” —Nicole Stott, Astronaut

"Love it! A delightful adventure into corals—their biology, ecology, and the environmental pressures they face. Easy to understand and beautifully illustrated, this book is for anyone with an interest in marine life.” —Shirley Pomponi, Research Professor, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute

"I can’t think of anyone better than Dave Vaughan to tell the full story of corals! You’ll learn what makes corals so extraordinary and get an honest appraisal of their current state, but you’ll also come away with hope as he explains with infectious optimism the advances that now make it plausible to restore reefs on a grand scale.” —Mark Schrope, Director, Schmidt Marine Technology Partners

Author Biography

Dr. David E. Vaughan has held positions in marine aquaculture research and development for over 30 years. For 15 years, he was the Executive Director of the Mote Marine Laboratory in the Florida Keys where he started the Coral Reef Restoration Program. Through this program he was heralded with being the first to develop the new technology of coral micro-fragmentation which dramatically improves the rate at which coral reefs can be restored. In 2017 he received the Chicago Field Museum Parker/Gentry Award as “Conservationist of the Year” for his work with coral restoration.