What are the three main types of coral restoration techniques?

The three main types of coral restoration techniques focus on methods that directly enhance coral populations and their habitats. Coral farming involves cultivating coral in a controlled environment, which can then be transplanted to natural reefs to help restore their density and diversity. Coral transplantation refers to relocating healthy coral fragments from one area to another, often to degraded reefs, to promote recovery. Nutrient addition can help accelerate coral growth by providing essential nutrients necessary for coral health and resilience.

This method contrasts with the other options that either include techniques not primarily aimed at restoring corals or introduce concepts that might not be as widely recognized or effective in the context of coral restoration. For instance, ocean shading and sediment control are related to mitigating environmental stressors rather than directly improving coral health. Similarly, while breeding and artificial reefs are valuable concepts, they are not the three primary techniques typically emphasized in coral restoration practices.