As part of compensation measures associated with the major new Sentosa Integrated Resort reclamation project, marine biologists have recently relocated corals along the northern shore of Sentosa to a new site to preserve the marine heritage and biodiversity.

The coral relocation involved careful removal, transportation and relocation of more than 600 corals of 33 genera, measuring 20cm to 100cm across. Marine creatures such as nudibranches, seahorses and frogfishes were relocated as and when they were encountered during the relocation. The receiving site was proposed by DHI as suitable for coral relocation based on experience from past coral relocation programs and other surveys conducted in the vicinity.

The corals were harvested and stored in several cages before being transferred by a slow-moving boat to the receiving site. In order to minimise stress, the corals remained submerged at all times, limiting their exposure to air. The relocated corals will be tagged, and their health and status monitored for a year.

DHI has been contracted by the Sentosa Integrated Resort operator, Resorts World at Sentosa, to manage and carry out the relocation program.