Exploring co-culture systems: the use of microherbivore grazing in coral propagation

Abstract

Coral reefs worldwide are experiencing rapid decline because of anthropogenic pressures. Caribbean reefs in particular have undergone a shift from coral- to algal-dominated states following the loss of key grazers. Reef rehabilitation efforts are being applied globally but remain challenging because of high cost, high workload and a low pos-transplant survivorship. Co-culture systems offer a dual restoration strategy by simultaneously increasing efficiency of sexual propagation of corals and cultivating juvenile microherbivores that can suppress algal growth. This review evaluates the feasibility of coculturing coral recruits with microherbivores, exploring the possibilities across gastropods, echinoderms, crabs, and starfish. Detailed methodology approach was conducted for Tripneustes spp. and the broadcast-spawning coral Pseudodiploria strigosa, as their biological characteristics and regional relevance make them promising species in Caribbean reef rehabilitation. By analyzing species specific grazing behavior, husbandry protocols, and environmental requirements, this review highlights both the potential and the limitations of co-culture approaches. It suggests considerations for scalable and ecologically safe implementation in future restoration efforts.