As I begin writing this book, my mind is overflowing with ideas I wish I could include.
Coral reefs and reef ecology are incredibly vast topics—even before we get into coral restoration. Narrowing it all down into a clear and concise guide has been quite the challenge, as my original intention was to write this to my Coral restoration workshop students.

To make things easier to follow, I’ve organized the book around what I see as the most essential topics. These sections are designed to help you understand how corals grow and grasp the basics of reef ecology. We’ll start with some key concepts and then explore the fascinating world of corals and their vital roles in marine ecosystems.

This guide isn’t meant to be a comprehensive reference for marine biologists. Instead, it’s a heartfelt project from a diver who is truly passionate about coral reef conservation. Welcome to the Coral Gardener's handbook!

-Sandra