Abstract

Coral reefs are among the most diverse and ecologically significant marine ecosystems, yet they are increasingly threatened by climate change, particularly through rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification. Traditional coral reef conservation strategies have proven insufficient in the face of these escalating threats. Assisted evolution, leveraging genetic techniques to enhance coral stress tolerance, represents a promising frontier in reef restoration. This article explores the application of genetic approaches to bolster coral resilience, focusing on gene editing, selectivebreeding, and genomic studies. We discuss current research, case studies, and future directions for implementing these technologies in real-world restoration efforts. By integrating genetic tools with traditional conservation methods, it is possible to improve coral health and sustainability, offering hope for the preservation and recovery of coral reef ecosystems.