The **sun coral**, first detected in **Brazil** in the 1980s, has **rapidly expanded its presence** along the country’s coast, affecting over 3,000 kilometers of shoreline.
This exotic species belongs to the genus **Tubastraea**, native to the **Indian and Pacific Oceans**, but in the **Western South Atlantic**, only **two invasive species** have been identified:
- Tubastraea coccinea.
- Tubastraea tagusensis.
Since its first record in the **Campos Basin, Rio de Janeiro**, it has spread to **Santa Catarina, Ceará, and Pernambuco**, even reaching areas of environmental protection through this [link](https://noticiasambientales.com/residuos/instalan-una-ecobarda-profesional-en-el-arroyo-escobar-para-mejorar-la-proteccion-ambiental/).
Environmental Impact and Challenges in Eradication
The sun coral **reproduces rapidly**, forming dense colonies that **suffocate native species** and alter marine biodiversity.
Between 2014 and 2023, over 1.3 million colonies were removed in the **Alcatraces Archipelago**, with a total weight of **12 tons**, with 92% of the **Tubastraea tagusensis** species.
Despite these efforts, researchers warn of the **short blanket effect**, where control in specific areas **reduces presence in one site**, but facilitates its expansion in **less managed areas**.
New Strategies for Sun Coral Control
Current techniques to combat the invasion include:
- **Manual method** with hammer and chisel, accessible but limited.
- **Pneumatic hammers**, more effective but restricted by noise and mobility.
- **Hydrogel applied with underwater drones**, a developing technology.
The study suggests prioritizing removal in **low abundance areas** and using mechanical tools in **high concentration zones**.
A Problem Linked to the Oil Industry
According to the **Brazilian Ministry of the Environment**, the sun coral was accidentally introduced on **oil platforms and ships**, favoring its expansion.
In 2018, the government included it as a **priority invasive species** within the **National Plan for Prevention, Control, and Monitoring**.
However, the invasion continues to **affect sensitive habitats**, such as **coral reefs**, already weakened by [ocean warming](https://noticiasambientales.com/ciencia/el-calentamiento-global-aumenta-el-nivel-del-mar-al-registro-mas-alto-desde-que-existen-registros/).
The Challenge of Stopping its Spread
The sun coral is **heterotrophic**, meaning it **consumes oxygen and produces carbon dioxide**, affecting the ecological balance.
Experts warn that it can generate up to 3,000 larvae in a single reproductive event and easily adhere to **rocks, ships, and reefs**, facilitating its dispersion.
The Importance of Continuous Monitoring
According to researchers, **total eradication is difficult**, but its control depends on a **combination of techniques**, including:
- Manual extraction with continuous monitoring.
- Research and development of new methods.
- Prevention actions on oil platforms.
While definitive solutions are sought, continuous monitoring and removal will be **key to mitigating the impact of sun coral** on Brazil’s marine ecosystems.
