Updates from Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program

One of the Acropora palmata, Elkhorn coral, in the Villa Blanca reef in Cozumel. Just by looking at the beautiful structures of a big, healthy Acropora coral, you can understand how important they are to the animals surrounding them. They provide structure for feather worms to attach, for fish like gobies to hide, as well as Trapezia crabs, Alpheus shrimp. Damselfish are so dependent on the Acropora that they can’t live without them, which we in biology call an obligate symbi

Cozumel is known for its turquoise waters, vibrant reefs, and laid-back charm but beyond the stunning views lies a passionate community working to protect the island’s natural treasures. For travellers and locals alike, volunteering offers a unique way to connect with Cozumel’s ecosystems and contribute to meaningful conservation efforts. Whether you're drawn to sea turtles, coral reefs, mangroves, or community science, there’s a program here for everyone. One of the most han

By doing extensive work led by our intern Emma Bogos we have searched for seaslugs inside and close to the restoration site to see how many species can be found in the area. Seaslugs are a group of different taxa including the most well known Nudibranchia, but also other taxa like Sacoglossa and Elysias. They are small slug-like creatures without outer shells and some of them do not get bigger than a few millimeters long! White V-trapania ( Trapania dalva ) on sponge by Emma

By day, Cozumel is a haven for reef divers and sun-chasers exploring the ins and outs of some of the world’s most famous reefs like...

by Ines Faure The goals of this study are to observe the behavior and geographic distribution of the long-spine sea urchin, D. antillarum,...

Mexico is home to the fourth-largest mangrove forest population in the world, a coastal treasure that anchors biodiversity, buffers...

Our intern Maire shares some photos and her experience of tracking seahorses here on the Villa Blanca reefs. It’s amazing that they have returned to the area after years of coral restoration and we get to enjoy their presence here in Cozumel.

Listen to Dr German Mendez speak about his coral restoration work here in Cozumel, Mexico and the current threats facing the reefs here.

photos and words: Hannah McKennett Picture this: you spend every day diving into electric blue water, swimming alongside spotted...

One morning in April 2025, without warning, a drilling rig appeared just offshore from Sunset Beach Club—the home of Sand Dollar Sports...

Cozumel thrives because of its world-famous coral reefs. But right now, businesses and livelihoods are under direct threat from plans to build a fourth cruise terminal in Cozumel. This plan, backed by MSC Cruises and some of Mexico's most powerful families, would place a cruise ship pier directly on top of Cozumel's Villa Blanca Reef. One of the most thriving reefs in Cozumel, Villa Blanca is also the area where the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program (CCRRP) has been work

Hello everyone, My name is Franzi, and I am a volunteer from Germany here in Cozumel, supporting the Coral Reef Restoration Program for...

Genuine black coral is endangered, strictly regulated, and often illegally collected

If you are looking for a place to volunteer in Cozumel and island's coral reefs, you don't have to be a scientist to help out at CCRRP

A quick overview of the different dive sites around Cozumel.

Following community reports, the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program conducted independent lab tests that confirmed wastewater contamination is impacting local reefs. The CCRRP is now urging a collaborative effort among authorities, businesses, and the public to address the water quality crisis and protect the marine ecosystem.

Cozumel is the 10th most over-tourist destination. This posts explores how it relates to other places and what lessons Cozumel can learn.

Climate change is causing reefs to die off from heat stress. Our summer intern Harry looks at shading as a potential solution.

Our fast-paced world often leaves little room for reflection or contribution beyond our daily routines. Taking a gap year or sabbatical...