Bleached corals can recover after physical contact with healthy genetic clones

Summary

New research reported by Smithsonian Magazine suggests that when a bleached coral fragment comes into physical contact with a colorful, thriving clone, the pale coral can revive within weeks. A coral is often a colony of tiny, genetically identical animals, which is why a healthy neighbor can serve as a source of recovery for heat-damaged marine ecosystems.

Timeline

1. Smithsonian Magazine

   20 Oct 2026, 18:56 UTCSource ↗

   Smithsonian Magazine reports that new research suggests a bleached coral fragment that touches a healthy, colorful genetic clone can revive within weeks.