The call of the corals
When flying into the Maldives, it’s hard not to be captivated by the aerial view of white islands floating like tiny organisms in the endless ocean. Landing in the capital Malé, it’s soon evident that Asia’s smallest country (its land area is about half of Mumbai) is blessed with some incredibly scenic geography across its 1,192 islands, of which less than 200 are inhabited. Another 164 of them are island resorts, forming the backbone of the country’s economy, and welcoming visitors to unwind and indulge.
Leaving behind the capital on a speedboat ride right from the airport, we zip across the ocean, and these islands now appear as distant specks on the horizon. While the Maldives delivers precisely what it promises in social media photos – pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and plush escapades – the question that inevitably arises is about the survival of its delicate ecosystem. Can those seeking sun and surf do their bit when travelling to this breath-taking archipelago? The islands are now providing opportunities to those who want to.
Over the next few days, we discover that coral reefs are at the frontline of this quest for sustainability and survival. Not only do these protect the islands from erosion and absorb carbon dioxide, but they also form a nourishing habitat for a variety of aquatic life from microscopic algae to mesmerising shoals of fish. On Jumeirah Olhahali Island in the North Malé Atoll, these corals and the larger ecosystem around them are the focal points of conservation, both on land and water.
Our understanding begins with an exploratory nature walk to appreciate the flora and fauna. It is a surprise to learn that many isles initially lacked substantial vegetation and the present lush tropical cover is a result of deliberate efforts, combining native growth with planted species and sustainable landscaping practices. In fact, conserving nesting habitats along the shores and controlling artificial lighting has enabled precious seasonal sightings for tourists, which include sea turtle hatchings and bioluminescent plankton.
We then get our much-awaited close-up glimpse of the corals. Embarking on a semi-submarine that glides a few feet below the water surface allows even the non-swimmers to admire Olhahali’s reefs. Requiring minimal exertion while also remaining completely dry makes this a popular activity, both during daytime and at night, especially for families with young children and the elderly.
For those willing to embrace the water, snorkelling and diving are the best ways to experience the magical world of underwater. After being briefed on best practices – for instance, staying horizontal, keeping distance from the corals, and applying reef-safe sunscreen – we are led by instructors into the sea from one of the diving spots dotting the island. Once you get attuned to the tide, you can understand the role of the oceanic biosphere, particularly corals, and their currently precarious state. Colourful fish emerge from the reef beneath us and a manta ray darts across in the background. But we also notice how some fragments of the reef have broken off while other sections have bleached – a result of climate change and global warming.
With awareness and observation in place, active participation is the next step and, as it turns out, the most rewarding as well. Under the watchful eye and guidance of Jumeirah Olhahali Island’s resident marine biologist, vacationers are welcome to join restoration efforts by planting corals themselves. Living remnants of corals that have naturally separated away from surrounding reefs are first identified and collected by experts, to be preserved inside the ocean. Participants can then co-dive with the resort’s team to attach these pieces to metal frames placed at optimal sites around Olhahali’s shores, where the currents are cooler and rich in nutrients. Over time, these restored patches flourish and become vibrant shelters for diverse marine life, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, stingrays, and occasionally even hawksbill turtles and blacktip reef sharks.
Through this conservation project, Jumeirah’s dedicated team has successfully saved hundreds of fragments, and they continue to add to and take care of the planted corals. Long after leaving Olhahali, one can observe the frames via undersea cameras and relive the experience. This makes the seemingly simple act of planting a coral more than just a holiday activity. It forges a deeper bond with marine life and inspires more conscious travellers to turn the tides against climate change, one coral at a time.
– The writers are freelance contributors
