Genes without borders

New international research led by Southern Cross University and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) has uncovered remarkable connectivity between coral reefs across the Western Pacific.

The study shows baby corals can travel 100km or more, with genetic exchange happening even between Australia and New Caledonia.

Why it matters:
- Strong genetic diversity supports reef recovery after heatwaves, cyclones and outbreaks
- Coral populations are interconnected across national boundaries
- Conservation must think beyond borders to protect these shared ecosystems

As lead researcher Dr Hugo DENIS explains, “genetic diversity is the fuel for adaptation” – and this shared ‘toolbox’ could be key to coral survival in a warming ocean.

A reminder that protecting reefs requires global collaboration.

Read more: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2026.04.057 

This research was conducted as part of a collaborative doctoral project between Southern Cross University (Australia) and Sorbonne University (France), and was supported by the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, The University of Queensland, the French Embassy Fund for Australia–Pacific cooperation, the Resilient Reefs Initiative, the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), and the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD). The Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program is funded through a partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Coral collection was carried out under permits issued by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, as well as by the South Province, North Province, and the Government of New Caledonia.