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Lab Touch Test Shows Weeks-Long Coral Recovery, Researchers Say

By Drooid · Oct 17, 2026, 4:07 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Danny Collins observed healthy coral nubbins healing bleached ones by touch in a California lab.
The bleached coral regained color within weeks, far faster than months in the wild.
Collins called the rapid recovery incredible and noted potential for treating heat-stressed reefs.
Scientists warn coral cover has halved since the 1950s and an upcoming El Niño may bring record-warm waters.

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Story summary

Danny Collins observed healthy coral nubbins healing bleached ones by touch in a California lab.
The bleached coral regained color within weeks, far faster than months in the wild.
Collins called the rapid recovery incredible and noted potential for treating heat-stressed reefs.
Scientists warn coral cover has halved since the 1950s and an upcoming El Niño may bring record-warm waters.