Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Reef and Coral Biology Course
This course offers an in-depth exploration of coral ecosystems, from their complex biodiversity to the ecological processes that sustain them. You will learn about the anatomy and physiology of corals, their reproduction and…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts7 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Reef and Coral Biology Course?
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Reef and Coral Biology.
This course offers an in-depth exploration of coral ecosystems, from their complex biodiversity to the ecological processes that sustain them. You will learn about the anatomy and physiology of corals, their reproduction and growth, and the symbiotic interactions that maintain reef health. We will analyze current threats, such as climate change and pollution, and explore conservation and restoration strategies.
Key Benefits:
- Specialized Knowledge: Master the biology, ecology, and conservation of coral reefs.
- Practical Skills: Learn monitoring techniques, species identification, and reef health assessment.
- Global Perspective: Understand the implications of climate change and pollution on reefs worldwide.
- Career Opportunities: Prepare for careers in research, marine conservation, and natural resource management.
- Learning Community: Connect with experts and peers passionate about ocean conservation.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
10-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Explore Marine Biodiversity: Discover the fascinating biology of coral reefs and their crucial role in marine ecosystems.
- Species Identification: Learn to identify the main species of corals, fish, and invertebrates that inhabit reefs.
- Threats and Conservation: Analyze the threats facing reefs, such as climate change and pollution, and the strategies for their conservation and restoration.
- Research Techniques: Immerse yourself in the research methodologies used to study the health and condition of reefs.
- Impact of Climate Change: Understand in Learn more about the impact of global warming on the survival of coral reefs.
- Participate and contribute to the protection of these valuable ecosystems.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Taxonomy and functional morphology of anthozoa and builders
- Detailed taxonomic classification of the cnidarians: fundamental differences between hard corals (scleractinies) and soft corals (octocorals).
- Coral polyp anatomy: study of tissue structure, tentacles, gastrovascular cavity and secretion of the calcareous skeleton.
- The process of calcification and formation of aragonite: how corals extract calcium carbonate from water to erect massive structures.
- Coral growth typologies: massive, branched, foliaceous and columnar forms and their adaptation to the hydrodynamics of the environment.
- Identification of the most representative coral species of the region and their specific role within the reef architecture.
02
Ecology of symbiosis and nutrition of the reef ecosystem
- The symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae: Mechanisms of exchange of nutrients between the polyp and the photosynthetic unicellular algae.
- Heterotrophic feeding strategies: capture of zooplankton and absorption of dissolved organic matter by nematocysts and mucus.
- The phenomenon of coral bleaching: Physiological causes of the rupture of the symbiosis and the impact of thermal stress on survival.
- Importance of light and photosynthesis in the zonation of the reef: how depth limits the distribution of coral species.
- The nitrogen and phosphorus cycle in the reef: Nutrient recycling processes in oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) tropical waters.
03
Reproduction, settlement and growth dynamics of the colonies
- Cycles of sexual reproduction: Strategies of massive synchronised spawning against internal incubation of larvae (planulation).
- Dispersion and survival of the larvae Plannulas: oceanographic factors and chemical signals that determine the success of the settlement.
- Asexual reproduction and clonal growth: processes of budding, natural fragmentation and the importance of tissue regeneration.
- Ecological succession in the reef: from the colonization of bare substrates to the formation of mature and complex communities.
- Growth limiting factors: Impact of sedimentation, turbidity and grazing rate on colony expansion.
04
Associated biodiversity and ecosystem services of the coral reef
- The reef as "Tropical Forest of the Sea": study of the immense biodiversity of fish, crustaceans and molluscs that depend on the coral.
- Relations of symbiosis and commensalism between reef fish and corals: the case of clown fish, gobies and cleansing prawns.
- The role of herbivores (parrot fish and hedgehogs) in the control of macroalgae to prevent the displacement of coral communities.
- Coastal protection services: the reef as a natural barrier against erosion, surge surge and the impact of the waves.
- Economic importance of reefs: Sustenance of artisanal fishing, diving tourism and the potential for molecular medicine.
05
Ecological restoration, management of protected areas and good practices
- Active restoration techniques: assisted fragmentation, coral nurseries (nurseries) and transplantation of colonies to degraded areas.
- Artificial reef engineering: Use of structures designed to promote larval settlement and biodiversity recovery.
- Strategic Management of Marine Protected Areas (AMP): Design of reserve zones, access control and continuous environmental monitoring.
- Protocols for sustainable tourism: guides of conduct for divers and navigators intended to avoid damage by contact or anchoring.
- Citizen science and environmental education programmes for early surveillance of bleaching and disease events.
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Students of biology, marine science, and environmental sciences seeking a solid foundation in coral reef ecology and conservation.Marine biologists and field technicians wishing to deepen their knowledge of coral identification, physiology, and threats.Divers and ocean lovers eager to understand the complexity and importance of reefs for their protection.NGO and conservation project managers
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
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Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Assessing reef health through sampling techniques and data analysis
- 02Identify and classify the different species of corals and other reef organisms
- 03Implement strategies for the conservation and restoration of coral reefs
- 04To understand and explain the biological and ecological processes that support the life and function of coral reefs
- 05Effectively communicate scientific information about coral reefs to diverse audiences
- 06Apply sustainable management principles for the use and protection of reef resources
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Research Scientist: Design and execution of research projects on coral reefs, including studies of biodiversity, ecology, genetics, and physiology.
02Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessments in reef ecosystems, development of management and restoration plans, and advising companies and governments.
03Marine Protected Area Manager: Planning, implementation, and monitoring of conservation and sustainable management strategies for coral reefs in protected areas.
04Environmental Educator: Design and delivery of educational and awareness programs on the importance of coral reefs and the need for their conservation.
05Laboratory Technician: Analysis of water, sediment, and marine organism samples in laboratories specializing in the study of coral reefs.
06Aquarist: Maintenance and care of reefs of coral in public and private aquariums, ensuring their health and well-being.
07Scientific Diver: Collecting underwater data and samples using specialized diving techniques for coral reef research and monitoring.
08Reef Restoration Specialist: Implementing techniques to restore damaged reefs, such as coral propagation and the construction of artificial structures.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Stony corals or hard corals.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Corals are invertebrate animals that build reefs; a reef is the ecosystem formed by the calcium carbonate structures secreted by corals.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Oceanography, or a related field; or demonstrable experience in coral reef research or conservation.Competencies:Basic knowledge of marine ecology, coral taxonomy, and identification of common reef species.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree (if applicable), cover letter explaining interest in reef and coral biology, references (optional).Desirable Skills:Experience in scientific diving, underwater photography, ecological data analysis, and statistical software u
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Frequently Asked Questions
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