Grand Life Magazine Winter 23-24 - Flipbook - Page 33
Coral Vita’s team of scientists and interns
Grand Bahama is known for its stunning, vibrant, and robust coral reefs. But, like many regions around the
world, parts of the island's reef systems have been damaged or destroyed by a number of factors - both
manmade and natural. In response to this ever-evolving problem, Coral Vita was created by a pair of
environmental entrepreneurs in a bid to help preserve and rebuild these important natural structures.
Sam Teicher, Chief Reef Officer, partnered with his good friend and fellow scientist, Gator Halpern,
President of Coral Vita, to develop the Coral Vita farm. It was their love for the ocean and marine life
that inspired the project, and since they launched in 2019, they have been able to cultivate 24 different
types of indigenous coral through a process called micro fragmentation.
Coral reefs aren't just stunning to look at. According to Alanna Vellacott, Coral Restoration Specialist,
coral reefs play an important role in daily life for Bahamians and nearly all coastal communities.
Alanna notes,
