Coral reefs in the ETP extend from the Baja California Peninsula (México) southward to Ecuador. These reefs are largely oceanographically isolated from the broader Pacific, and unlike other reef provinces characterized by continuous barrier reef structures, ETP reefs typically form small and scattered patches. As such, they are often referred to as coral communities rather than true reefs—yet they support a high biodiversity. Corals in this region are considered relatively resilient, having adapted to extreme and suboptimal environmental conditions. This resilience is reflected in their genetic characteristics and life history strategies.

 

Restoration efforts in the ETP began as early as 2013 in the Mexican Central Pacific, with subsequent projects launched in Costa Rica and Colombia. More recently, initiatives have expanded to El Salvador and Ecuador, with new projects set to begin on Easter Island (Chile).

 

Most restoration work has focused on species within the genus Pocillopora, although Pavona, Porites, and Gardineroseris are also being propagated. Several projects include routine monitoring of environmental parameters and ecological indicators. Restoration strategies primarily rely on in situ coral propagation followed by transplantation, often using ropes, trees, or Mars reef stars. At least two ex situ coral cultivation facilities are currently operational, with others under development. The region faces persistent challenges from tourism, fishing, and unsustainable land-use practices linked to coastal development and agriculture, which has lead to increased sedimentation and nutrient loading. Additionally, widespread coral bleaching occurred across much of the region in 2023 due to ocean warming—with Ecuador being a notable exception.