By Eric Pahua

          In a school located in Queensland Australia, a group of students have decided to try out a very unique approach to conserving the great barrier reef; their method to saving the reef is to start breeding clownfish. The students are reef guardians and young scientists, and are passionate about making a difference for the reefs. 

          The project involves creating a controlled environment where clownfish can breed safely and effectively, by ensuring that these fish can grow up in optimal conditions the healthy clown fish can be reintroduced into the reef, clown fish are not only popular because of their vibrant colors (and because of the movie finding nemo) but they also play a pretty important role to the ecosystem of the reef, they live in sea anemones and they both (the clownfish and the anemones) in symbioses, the clownfish lure other fish into the anemone and the anemone paralyzes and eats the fish, while offering protection to the clownfish since it cannot be harmed by the anemones paralyzing effects. 

          This entire operation is part of a broader effort to try and address the declining health of the great barrier reef, by focusing on clownfish the students are contributing to the overall biodiversity of the reef, which is vital for its resilience, the breeding program also serves as an educational tool, raising awareness about the importance of marine conservation and the challenges that exist for the reefs. 

          Through the young scientists' work they have inspired others to try and get involved in conservation efforts. Their project highlights the potential of other young scientists to make a significant change on environmental issues, as the clownfish bred and reintroduced, the students efforts could contribute to the restoration of of the reef and help demonstrate the power of dedication in preserving our

 natural world.🐾