Global change causes widespread decline of coral reefs. In order to counter the anticipated disappearance of coral reefs by the end of this century, many initiatives are emerging, including creation of marine protected areas (MPAs), reef restoration projects, and assisted evolution initiatives. Such efforts, although critically important, are locally constrained. We propose to build a “Noah's Ark” biological repository for corals that taps into the network of the world’s public aquaria and coral reef scientists. Public aquaria will serve not only as a reservoir for the purpose of conservation, restoration, and research of reef-building corals but also as a laboratory for the implementation of operations for the selection of stress-resilient and resistant genotypes. The proposed project will provide a global dimension to coral reef education and protection as a result of the involvement of a network of public and private aquaria.

全球变化导致珊瑚礁普遍下降。为了应对本世纪末之前预计的珊瑚礁消失，正在出现许多倡议，包括建立海洋保护区（MPA），珊瑚礁修复项目和辅助进化倡议。这些努力尽管至关重要，但在当地受到限制。我们建议为珊瑚建立一个“诺亚方舟”生物储存库，以利用世界上公共水族馆和珊瑚礁科学家的网络。公共水族箱不仅将作为保存，恢复和研究造礁珊瑚的目的的水库，而且还将作为进行选择抗逆性和抗性基因型的操作的实验室。