Domes (for Acropora cervicornis and A. prolifera ): The idea for domes came about after the earthquake in 2009: How could we replant corals if no large dead coral heads were present? The idea came from http://reefscapers.com who were planting multiple species on each dome. We modified this with a single genet of a single species, to form a colony, and placed several domes with different genets on them in proximity to each other. So that if/when they spawn, there is diversity to allow successful reproduction. Colombia and St. Barth’s have modified the size and shape of their domes; the important aspect is welding the legs for pounding into the substrate.
We used Ospho* as a rust prevention, and also ‘cure’ the domes in sea water at least overnight. If placed over rubble (where live staghorn used to thrive) any dropped branches have a better chance of survival. The domes are considered permanent and can represent both out-planted corals and a gene bank/nursery as long as you keep a single genet on each dome, and keep track of those genets. Photo: Marion Carr Welding gives strength. Note welded legs for ease of installation. Materials Approximately two years’ growth on dome. We used 5/8” steel, but expensive! Can try the next size down (1/4”) Photo: Valeria Pizarro-Coralina- Universidad de Los Andes agreement No. 013- Columbia and St.
Barth’s trying different size/shapes Crucial is welding the legs to pound into substrate (ideally 24’) Small cable ties to affix corals NOTE placement of corals on vertical bars Colombia’s version: Note they did not weld legs. St. Barth’s version, ready for installation *Ospho (rust prevention) and brush *http://www ospho com/directions htm 10