A global survey has highlighted a ‘notable’ lack of Australian coral restoration projects.

Australian and German researchers have reviewed projects aimed at transplanting coral to help reefs around the world. 

The study identified over 50 projects not included in the current scientific literature, mostly from the Caribbean and Indo Pacific regions. 

In a subsequent questionnaire, the researchers found 80 per cent of these projects were predominantly aimed at restoring local habitats, and many faced problems with sustained funding. 

The study noted since Great Barrier Reef bleaching events around the time of the questionnaire, there has been an increased push in Australia for restoration efforts.

The findings show that while some general principles for successful coral restoration projects are well established, others need much more focus to improve the effectiveness of coral transplantation for reef restoration. 

This focus needs to relate in particular to sustainable funding, adequate site assessment, and long-term monitoring using established protocols. 

The researchers also say that additional information is needed to better understand and address potential challenges with regards to the sourcing of transplants and use of slow-growing species.

The full study is accessible here.