Local Coral Species

There are a lot differrent corals in South Florida, this should help you learn to identify them. South Florida Reef Corals

Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease

What is Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD)?

Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) is a disease of corals that first appeared off the southeast coast of Florida in 2014. It originally was described as white plague disease. By 2019 it had spread along the Florida Keys and had appeared elsewhere in the Caribbean Sea. The disease destroys the soft tissue of at least 22 species of reef-building corals, killing them within weeks or months of becoming infected. The causal agent is unknown but is suspected to be either a bacterium or a virus with a bacterium playing a secondary role. Source: Wikipedia

A New study suggests that ship’s ballast water may pose a threat to continued spread. Source: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science

Where can SCTLD be found?

The Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment page shows a map of where SCTLD is present in Florida. You can also submit basic and detailed bleaching and disease surveys.

What coral species are affected by SCTLD?

The Coral Disease and Health Consortium website has a list of which species are affected.

Can SCTLD be treated?

Yes, on a small scale. How To Treat Corals Affected by Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease