Coral Spawning Spectacle Expected July 20 on Maui

Coral spawning event file photo courtesy Maui Ocean Center.

By Wendy Osher

The spawning of live coral is expected to occur this Friday, July 20, 2012, at the Maui Ocean Center, as rice coral reproduce under the light of a new moon.

The highly anticipated summer event is projected to happen between 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., but is not guaranteed since corals spawn in response to multiple environmental, biological and physical cues.

The center celebrates the coral spawning spectacle with tours, a slideshow presentation, and live video footage from an underwater robotic camera.

Cost for admission is $35 for adults, and $30 for children age 3-12 with a portion of proceeds benefiting Project S.E.A.-Link, a non-profit organization promoting marine science, education and awareness.

From 7:45 to 9 p.m., naturalists will lead a tour through The Living Reef.  Tours will begin every 15 minutes and include topics such as Coral 101, Coral Struggles and Survival, Coral Biology and How to Protect Coral.

Guests are invited to spend the evening touring the Aquarium with complimentary light pupu, coffee and desserts, along with a cash bar, will be offered.

Reservations are recommended by calling 270-7088 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to reserve a spot.