Four years ago over a pub lunch, we began a collaboration with Artecology and the Future Oceans Foundation that resulted in the development of the CoralPod®.

From the outset, our focus extended beyond coral growth. We already had confidence in our ability to propagate corals effectively. The real question was how to design a structure that would maximise biodiversity and habitat complexity while also supporting long-term coral restoration.

The design needed to have the ability to be produced anywhere around the world, using matirials sourced locally.

The CoralPod® was engineered to provide ecological function as well as surface area. Its form creates niches, shelter, and water flow patterns that allow a wide range of species to colonise the unit.

Today, we see evidence not only of successful coral growth but also of broader community development, demonstrating the importance of designing restoration tools with the wider ecosystem in mind.

Recently I observed a post showing a wire frame restoration unit revealed juvenile damselfish (Pomacentridae) sheltering beneath it while a lionfish (Pterois volitans) occupied the same space.

This illustrates a key limitation of wire frames that they lack protective complexity, leaving juveniles vulnerable to predation.

This work reinforces a central principle often overlooked… effective reef restoration is about creating resilient, functioning habitats that support the return of biodiversity at scale.