Title: The Extraordinary Journey of Elvira Alvarado – Colombia’s Coral Crusader In an era where climate change has led to the decline of coral reefs worldwide, one woman stands tall in her mission to save them – Colombian marine biologist Elvira Alvarado. Known as “the mother of Colombian corals,” she is a pioneer in using in-vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques to help reproduce and restore endangered reefs. At 70 years old, Alvarado continues her diving expeditions with the same passion that first led her underwater nearly five decades ago. She recalls those early days when she encountered a vibrant coral reef teeming with life off Colombia’s Caribbean coast. “It was paradise,” she says, painting a picture of an ecosystem thriving in its natural splendor. However, over the years, diseases, pollution, and rising ocean temperatures have taken their toll on these vital marine habitats. Since the 1970s, more than half of all coral in the Caribbean has died, leaving many once-lush reefs barren and lifeless. Alvarado witnessed this decline firsthand: “I saw them dying. I saw them turning white.” The bleaching of corals is a result of stress caused by factors such as warmer water temperatures or pollution. When stressed, the symbiotic algae living within the coral’s tissues are expelled, causing the coral to lose its color and eventually starve due to lack of food. This weakened state makes it difficult for them to reproduce naturally. Recognizing this urgent need for intervention, Alvarado developed a unique method using IVF techniques to help restore these endangered reefs. By carefully nurturing coral fragments in controlled environments and encouraging their growth through artificial fertilization, she is giving new life to the dying corals. Her work has earned her the nickname “the mother of Colombian corals,” reflecting her unwavering dedication to these vital ecosystems. The implications of Alvarado’s efforts are far-reaching. Coral reefs provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for thousands of fish species, protect shorelines from erosion, and support tourism by attracting snorkelers and divers. By preserving these habitats, she is not only saving the corals but also contributing to the overall health of our oceans and marine life. In an era where climate change poses significant threats to our planet’s ecosystems, Elvira Alvarado stands as a beacon of hope. Her innovative approach to preserving Colombia’s endangered coral reefs serves as a reminder that with determination and passion, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. As we continue to grapple with the effects of climate change, her story inspires us all to take action in protecting our precious natural resources.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/10/05/nx-s1-5553552/the-mother-of-colombian-corals)
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