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Coral Conservation Pioneer Revives Reefs Through IVF

10/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Elvira Alvarado leads efforts to rescue endangered coral reefs through in-vitro fertilization.
At 70, she continues diving and trains new scientists, earning the title 'the mother of Colombian corals'.
Coral reefs have declined since the 1970s due to diseases, pollution, and rising temperatures.
Her team collects eggs and sperm during a narrow spawning window each year to breed hardier varieties.

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Story summary

Elvira Alvarado leads efforts to rescue endangered coral reefs through in-vitro fertilization.
At 70, she continues diving and trains new scientists, earning the title 'the mother of Colombian corals'.
Coral reefs have declined since the 1970s due to diseases, pollution, and rising temperatures.
Her team collects eggs and sperm during a narrow spawning window each year to breed hardier varieties.