DZCA Joins the Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project

Collaborating for Coral: What is the Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project?

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project (FRTRP) is a network of AZA-accredited facilities dedicated to rescuing, housing, and propagating corals affected by stony coral tissue loss disease. This project unites more than 20 zoos and aquariums, managing over 19 coral rescue holding facilities across the country.

While researchers and scientists work tirelessly to find a cure, landlocked facilities like Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) play a critical role in safeguarding over 2,000 rescued corals, ensuring their survival for future restoration efforts.

What is Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease?

Florida’s coral reef is experiencing a multi-year outbreak of this disease that has impacted nearly 90% of Florida’s reef (over 109,700 acres). Unlike typical outbreaks, this disease spreads rapidly across vast areas, causing high mortality rates and affecting numerous coral species.

Stony coral tissue loss disease is transmitted through direct contact and water circulation, making containment a significant challenge. Researchers are still investigating its exact cause, but collaborative efforts like the FRTRP are vital to mitigating its impact.

(Land) Locked In: Coral Conservation in the Rockies

In January 2025, after a rigorous three-year application and preparation process, DZCA was thrilled to officially join the FRTRP. We welcomed 30 coral colonies from 10 different species, all rescued from Florida’s impacted reef systems.

Our corals are housed in a custom-built rescue coral holding facility within Tropical Discovery and will be cared for by our dedicated Animal Care Specialists who have over 30 years of aquatic expertise. This custom-built environment includes advanced systems designed to mimic natural ocean conditions, such as:

Wi-Fi-Connected Lighting: Syncs with real-time weather patterns in Florida, allowing our corals to experience the same light cycles as their wild counterparts.

Precision Water Quality Controls: Ensures optimal temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels for coral health.

Protecting Coral, Preserving the Future

The goal is to safeguard these corals for up to three years, giving researchers time to secure their native habitats and find a cure for stony coral tissue loss disease. Eventually, these resilient corals may be reintroduced to the wild, helping restore Florida’s reef ecosystems.

Wondering what you can do? No matter where you live, you can make a difference for coral reefs. Here are a few changes you can implement to support coral and our oceans:

Reduce Water Usage: Less runoff means fewer pollutants entering waterways.

Recycle & Reduce Waste: Prevent plastic and debris from reaching marine environments.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose sunscreens free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs.

Support Conservation Organizations: All visits, memberships and donations to DZCA support our wildlife conservation efforts in Colorado and worldwide.

For updates on this project, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. Together, we can protect coral reefs and the countless species that depend on them.