SECORE

Based on the coral reproduction research of Dirk Petersen at the Rotterdam Zoo in The Netherlands, SECORE was born in 2002. Petersen's findings led to innovative techniques on the use sexual coral reproduction for coral reef conservation. Established by the aquarium community and coral conservation scientists, SECORE initially focused on ex situ conservation and later as well on reef restoration (in situ conservation).

In 2004, Mike Brittsan, M.Sc., of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium joined SECORE to take over the leading role in the United States. Over the years, both institutions – in collaboration with other organisations – started a very successful workshop program not only to train experts in the SECORE techniques, but also to bring different institutions together for a common goal – help saving the coral reef. SECORE supports science in various fields, such as coral restoration, coral population genetics or coral cryopreservation.

Together with its more than 60 supporting partner institutions, SECORE reaches millions of people to spread the word about the dramatic situation of our ocean and what we can do about it. In 2018, they were subject of coverage from VICE News for their work in the coral reefs of Curaçao.^[3]

• Issues with coral reefs
• Iliana Baums