![]() "We have a responsibility to the ecosystems surrounding us, and establishing The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank is our next step in the ongoing effort to protect our reefs and stop Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. ![]() The BCBG will safeguard genetic diversity and foster coral breeding for reef regeneration and restoration. The BCGB will house up to 600 coral colonies of more than 15 species vulnerable to SCTLD and will be designed to allow for coral propagation, producing tens of thousands of offspring annually. The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank at Atlantis will allow marine biologists and students to rescue, preserve, study and grow coral species in a controlled environment. Additionally, the foundation has provided funding for the implementation of coral reef education programs in schools throughout the country. Their efforts have also contributed to creating 1.4 million acres of Marine Protected Areas on the west side of Andros Island and the designation of 17 marine protected areas with coral reefs in The Bahamas. They have established 25 coral nurseries and planted thousands of corals to aid in the growth of depleted reefs. The foundation has successfully financed the country's first coral reef report card, which involved surveying over 400 reefs to determine the extent of damage and predict recovery after natural disasters. The Atlantis Blue Project Foundation is championing the efforts to preserve marine life in The Bahamas. Most recently, Atlantis, ABPF and Perry Institute for Marine Science led a coral out planting excursion using coral fragments harvested from nurseries at the resort, and replanted a nearby coral reef to accelerate the process of ecosystem replenishment. When visiting Atlantis, guests have a unique opportunity to contribute to marine life conservation. Proceeds from all experiences at the resort's world-class marine habitats and Dolphin Cay directly fund ABPF initiatives. The resort's innovative, progressive, passion-driven approach to preserving paradise underscores every aspect of the iconic destination resort, from family-friendly activities to diverse dining offerings. The Atlantis team makes decisions guided by current and future environmental, social and economic impacts. In its 25-year history, Atlantis has established itself as a leader in sustainable tourism with ongoing work to protect, rehabilitate and conserve marine life in The Bahamas. ![]() Under this agreement, Atlantis and ABPF will support the effort to build and equip a biosecure facility to save the most vulnerable coral species from SCTLD until they can be safely returned to the reefs. Signed into effect on May 18 th, The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank at Atlantis Paradise Island (BCGB) is a collaboration between Atlantis and its 501(c)3 nonprofit organization Atlantis Blue Project Foundation (ABPF), The Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) and University of The Bahamas. Coral survival rate of SCTLD is extremely low and once infected, corals can die within weeks. ![]() Of the 45 reef-building coral species within the region, more than half can catch the disease, including some of the slowest-growing and longest-lived species such as brain, pillar and star corals. Nearly half of The Bahamas and Caribbean's reef-building coral species are susceptible to SCTLD.
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