RESTORING REEFS. RALLYING AWARENESS.
Counting Coral is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that designs, donates, and installs Sculptural Coral Gene Banks tailored for the rehabilitation of coral reef ecosystems. By submerging functional, structural artwork, we're redefininh human engagement with reef restoration. Beneath the ocean surface, these sculptures provide habitat for genetically diverse and resilient coral strains—initially serving as nurseries and ultimately functioning as foundational parent colonies within a dynamic gene bank network.
DESIGN DRIVEN RESTORATION
Our approach to reef restoration is rooted in design — not just for beauty, but for long-term function and resilience. Each sculptural installation is engineered using marine-grade stainless steel, ensuring structural integrity, non-toxicity, and longevity that exceeds 500 years. These elegant, high-performance forms are carefully constructed to support coral growth, provide habitat for marine life, and withstand extreme ocean conditions. By merging art, material science, and ecological intent, we create restoration systems that are not only visually compelling but also more durable, efficient, and effective than many traditional methods.
Biodiversity & resilience
Effective reef restoration depends on genetic diversity. As ocean temperatures rise and conditions grow more extreme, restoring reefs with mono-cultured coral threatens long-term survival. We focus on propagating rare, heat-tolerant, and genetically resilient coral species — those proven to withstand stress and adapt to changing environments. By prioritizing biodiversity, we help rebuild reef systems that are more stable, productive, and capable of supporting complex marine life well into the future. True reef recovery starts with the genetics — and with protecting the corals that can withstand the future.
Connection beneath the surface
Our restoration work is designed to connect — not just coral to reef, but people to purpose. The beauty of our sculptures draws attention, creating a powerful entry point for education and awareness around the coral crisis. But beyond inspiration, our work builds real community impact. We train and employ local people in every project, transferring knowledge, creating jobs, and fostering local stewardship of the ocean. From fabrication to installation, storytelling to science, our process is collaborative — rooted in place, culture, and shared responsibility. Restoration isn’t just ecological; it’s human.
EXPLORE OUR INSTALLATIONS
Blue Lagoon Beach Resort, est. 2022
Castaway Island, Fiji Resort, est. 2025
Blue Lagoon Beach Resort, est. 2022
Nacula Island
Vomo Island Resort, est. 2024
Waidroka Bay Dive & Surf Resort, est. 2025
Blue Lagoon Beach Resort, est. 2022
WHAT IS A 'GENE BANK'?
A gene bank is a genetic library that stores and
preserves genetic material from various organisms, particularly plants, animals, and microorganisms -
and in our case, coral. The intention is to safeguard the diversity of the selected reef ecosystem in order to avoida future of mono-cultured reefs. We plant rare, resilient, and opportunistic corals - that become the 'parent corals' on the gene bank. Genetic diversity is the foundation of biodiversity, and if maintained, will allow for species' adaptation, resilience, and evolutionary potential.
what's it to you?
Traditionally, coral restoration efforts often lack appeal for tourists and passersby, as they primarily involve utilitarian structures and functional frames for coral harvesting. Our goal is to combine this scientific efficacy with artistic elements that spark curiosity and captivate swimmers who may have little knowledge about coral. By incorporating art pieces, we aim to provoke questions and actively engage individuals in the importance of coral conservation.
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These stunning gene banks serve not only as captivating living art pieces but also address all the challenges of restoration. They represent the most effective and safest method for preserving coral genetics and protecting reefs for the future. The future of coral conservation and protection depends greatly on the involvement and interest of travelers and the public at large. With the integration of art, resorts now have a compelling method to educate visitors about the significance of reef restoration.
WHAT ARE THEY MADE OF?
Both the structure and attachment wires are constructed from marine-grade stainless steel, ensuring they are completely safe for coral and ocean life. Unlike many materials used in coral conservation, marine-grade stainless steel does not release micro-plastics, leach chemicals, or deteriorate over time. Ocean elements like algae start to cover the structure, transforming into a living art piece, and an artificial reef. Marine-grade stainless steel is the safest and most effective material for underwater use.
HOW WILL THEY HELP?
The Sculptural Coral Gene Banks are pivotal in preserving the biodiversity and genetic diversity of coral reefs at selected locations. This proactive approach guards against the potential pitfalls of mono-cultures and the more severe threat of complete reef degradation. They're designed as a sustainable system for coral cultivation. They support the replanting and ongoing growth of coral reefs by maintaining 'parent corals' in gene banks coupled with secondary nurseries—practices that are not typically employed in standard coral restoration efforts.
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This strategic deployment serves as a foundation for sustained growth and expansion of coral habitats.They not only draw the attention of tourists and divers but also foster their direct involvement in coral restoration activities. This makes the sculptures a compelling marketing asset for resorts or partnering organizations, enhancing their appeal and engagement with visitors.
Our site is currently under construction — exciting updates coming soon!