Slice of Paradise Coral Microfragmentation

Create living pieces of paradise by learning from the world’s leading scientists from Mote Marine Laboratory. Using a Mote pioneered technique called microfragmentation and reskinning, guests will learn how to cut coral on land, using a small jewelry diamond-bladed saw, creating small fragments. Guests will mount fragments on ceramic pedestals that will be returned to grow in the land-based nursery until the proper size to outplant.

During this experience, guests will learn about endangered species of coral that are important to Florida’s Coral Reef, and microfragment coral that will eventually be planted on nearby reefs as soon as they grow to the perfect size within the on-site coral nursery. Guests will also get an up-close view and tour of Mote’s land-based satellite nursery and learn about various research happening by Mote scientists to ensure genetic diversity and resiliency-focused strategies that make up Mote’s science-based, innovative and unique restoration approach for Florida’s Coral Reef.

PLEASE NOTE: This program takes place in the FLORIDA KEYS at the following locations:

  • Mote’s Key Largo Coral Nursery, located on the property of Reefhouse Resort & Marina, 103800 Overseas Highway. Programs scheduled on Thursdays at 3 p.m.
  • Mote’s Islamorada Coral Nursery, located on the property of Bud N’ Mary’s Marina, 79851 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036. Programs scheduled on select Wednesdays at 3 p.m.

Fee: $125 per person
Upcoming Dates & Times: Click Register buttons for available details or contact keyseducation@mote.org to request a date/time not currently listed.
Age Requirements: Minimum age to participate is 10 years old at time of registration. All participants ages 10-17 MUST be accompanied by a paid adult participant.

This program is one-hour long and pre-registration is required. Registration closes two days prior to the tour date. We require a minimum of 2 guests to operate this program. If we do not meet our registration requirements, we will cancel the program and issue a refund. Please review our program policies prior to registering.