PELAKITA.ID – The Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System (MARRS) is a pioneering approach developed over 15 years to restore coral reefs at an ecologically meaningful scale. By utilizing Reef Stars, a hexagonal, sand-coated steel structure.
MARRS has emerged as one of the most effective large-scale coral restoration techniques in Indonesia and beyond.
That information was shared by Lily Damayanti (on behalf of PT MARS during her presentation at the coral conservation seminar organized by JOB Tomori Pertamina – Medco Energi in collaboration with ADSI and Hasanuddin University, 27 February 2025.
Origins of MARRS
MARRS began as an initiative by Mars Inc., originally aimed at supporting alternative livelihoods for coastal and small island communities in Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Early efforts explored coral farming for export, but challenges in existing restoration methods, such as the high cost and scalability issues of Biorock, prompted researchers to seek better solutions.
Experimentation with concrete pipes, mesh tables, and other materials led to the development of the Reef Star, a breakthrough innovation that stabilizes coral rubble and accelerates reef recovery.
The Reef Star: A Game-Changer in Reef Restoration
The Reef Star has transformed coral restoration with its lightweight, strong, and stackable design, making transportation and deployment both efficient and cost-effective.
When placed on the seafloor, these structures form an interconnected web that stabilizes loose coral rubble, creating an ideal substrate for coral growth.
Studies have shown that this method can lead to a 70% increase in coral cover and a 260% rise in fish populations, significantly enhancing biodiversity in restored areas.
Training for Success: The MARRS Program
Effective coral restoration requires expertise, and the MARRS training program equips practitioners with the necessary skills. Participants gain a deep understanding of coral biology and conservation strategies, learn how to identify suitable restoration sites, and receive hands-on instruction in Reef Star production and installation.
The program also emphasizes sustainable coral sourcing, ensuring genetic diversity, and teaches critical monitoring and maintenance techniques to secure long-term restoration success.
Why Restore Coral Reefs?
Coral reefs are vital to marine ecosystems, providing coastal protection, supporting fisheries, and sustaining marine biodiversity. However, they face increasing threats from destructive fishing, mining, tourism, and climate change.
Restoration efforts aim to repair these damaged ecosystems, enhance fish habitats, and support local communities by integrating conservation with sustainable economic opportunities.
The Global Impact of MARRS
MARRS has made remarkable strides in large-scale coral restoration. With 72 Reef Star sites across 12 countries, over 80,000 Reef Stars installed worldwide, and 1.3 million corals out-planted, the impact is undeniable.
In Indonesia’s Spermonde Archipelago, more than 40,000 Reef Stars have been deployed, leading to a 64% increase in fish species diversity in restored areas.
Scaling Coral Reef Restoration
Unlike small-scale pilot projects, full-scale reef restoration requires substantial investment. The cost of restoring reefs at an ecologically significant level typically ranges between $200,000 to $400,000 per hectare per year.
Beyond financial commitments, large-scale restoration demands extensive physical labor, sustainability planning, and continuous monitoring to evaluate long-term effectiveness and return on investment.
Understanding Costs and Benefits
Before embarking on a restoration project, it is crucial to assess both its benefits and the communities it will serve. Coral reefs contribute significantly to fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection, with the United Nations (UN) estimating their value between $100,000 and $600,000 per square kilometer per year.
Clearly defining restoration objectives and identifying beneficiaries ensures that projects meet conservation goals while fostering engagement from stakeholders, governments, and local communities.
Prioritizing Safety in Restoration Work
Diving plays a central role in MARRS restoration, making safety a top priority. Divers must be properly qualified, proficient in maintaining neutral buoyancy, and physically fit to perform demanding underwater tasks.
A recent medical check-up is recommended, and all team members should be trained in emergency procedures, including diver recall and first aid.
Before any restoration activities begin, thorough site assessments must be conducted to evaluate environmental conditions and potential hazards.
During coral tying, teams working in shallow water should wear enclosed shoes, sun protection, and gloves, while coral fragmenters must use safety glasses.
For shuttling Reef Stars, teams should be comfortable with breath-hold snorkeling, and rest periods should be planned to prevent fatigue.
In staking operations, tasks should be evenly distributed across the dive team to ensure efficiency and prevent exhaustion.
The Future of Coral Restoration
MARRS has demonstrated that large-scale coral restoration is not only possible but also effective when backed by scientific research, innovation, and strong community partnerships. As the program continues to evolve, collaboration with governments, NGOs, and local stakeholders will be crucial in scaling efforts globally.
By integrating cutting-edge techniques with sustainable conservation practices, MARRS is paving the way for the restoration of the world’s coral reefs—ensuring these critical ecosystems thrive for generations to come.
