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, Key Largo, FL 33037.
- Mote’s Islamorada Coral Nursery, located on the property of Bud N’ Mary’s Marina, 79851 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036.
- Mote’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration is located at 24244 Overseas Highway
Summerland Key, FL 33042.
Fee: $75 per person
Age Requirements: Minimum age to participate is 12 years old at time of registration. All participants ages 12-17 MUST be accompanied by a paid adult participant.
Slice of Paradise is available on demand. To request a program, please fill out the appropriate request form below. Two weeks advanced notice is advised. Please review our program policies prior to registering.
