NSU Horizons Spring 2010

15 HORIZONS BY KEN MA Globe S taghorn corals are releasing millions of eggs and sperm into the dark Atlantic Ocean during mating season, a once-a- year phenomenon that happens after a full moon. Nova Southeastern University Oceanographic Center researcher Alison Moulding, Ph.D., and her graduate students are not only witnessing this incredible act of nature known as coral spawning, they are there to help save the species. Using high-powered lights and nets, they dive into the depths to collect the many pinkish eggs and sperm scattered wildly in the water and in between the Staghorn’s branches. They will bring the harvest back to their laboratories to grow the coral, which will eventually be returned to the sea to replace damaged ones. “My research focuses on coral reef restora- tion and recovery from damage,” Moulding said. “Conservation and reducing pressure on coral reefs are the keys to their survival and vitality.” Moulding is one of dozens of world-class researchers and scientists at the well-known NSU Oceanographic Center, called the OC for short. They are scientists studying the many spe- cies of corals, sharks, sponges, bill sh, manatees, and just about anything related to the ocean. Their research has helped protect the oceans. “Consequently, most of our research is management and conservation oriented, designed to seek knowledge and information that can be useful in promoting a more healthy and sustainable ocean for users of all kinds,” said Richard E. Dodge, Ph.D., dean of the OC, which is located at John U. Lloyd Beach State Park in Dania Beach. That knowledge is essential for basic under- standing of the oceanic world and for use by marine managers and policymakers to protect and conserve the seas. OC faculty and staff members are aca- demics, professors, researchers, and mentors for their students. And their good work has not gone unnoticed. CORAL REEF RESEARCH CENTER In January, the OC received a $15-million stimulus grant from the federal government to build the nation’s largest coral reef research center, the 86,000-square-foot Center for Excellence for Coral Reef Ecosystems Science Research Facility. NSU was among 12 universi- ties, out of 167 applying nationwide, to receive a comprehensive and prestigious grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. NSU was one of only two universities that received the full amount of $15 million. The university will more than match the federal grant, providing $22 million to build the center at the OC. The $37-million facility is