Coral Spawn??

[TN Traveler]

Looking at returning to Curacao this fall (instead of December) and wanting to time our trip to coincide with the Coral Spawning. I know it usually occurs 3-4 days after the full moon in early fall.

So would mid- September or mid-October be a better time to visit??

 

[Kukuisa]

Full moon is on September 12 and October 11, 2011.
I think the chances to see coral spawning are better mid September than mid October. There even might be some spawning in August as well.

K.

 

[TN Traveler]

Thanks

That's what I thought but your confirmation helps.

See you in September.

 

[CuracaoJ]

About 6 nights after the full moons in September and October should be the prime time. You might want to plan a couple days before/after.

 

[Bryan.]

Hey TN!

I have attached the predictions for 2011!

Hope this helps you plan your vacation and we will look forward to seeing you soon!!

 

[TN Traveler]

Bryan

Thanks for the info. This really helps with the timing for our visit. Will contact you once plans are final.

Thanks

 

[curious2dive]

Hi TN Traveler,

Coral Spawning starts in august with the Elkhorn and Staghorn. Those are endangered species and we have a special program together with SECORE (a foundation) to do something about reef conservation. In august we have special groups of scientists in the water to collect the spawning and do the fertilization in aquariums. Later we are putting the larvae back on the reef on tiles.

In September and October the spawning continues with the Brain Corals, Star Corals Lettuce corals. But also Sea urchins, fire worms etc. This starts in the afternoon or the late afternoon.

So there is a lot to explore. The best is in September 4-6 days after the full moon of sep. 12. But those are all predictions weather conditions can always change affect the real spawning time.

If you want to know more about the spawning don't hesitate to send me a PM.

Happy planning and we hope to welcome you on our Island.

 

[TN Traveler]

Hans

I have been to Curacao several times already and love the Island. We have always been there in December but this year find that September would work, especially since seeing the Coral Spawn is on my "Bucket List". My intent is to get some video of the spawning but I would be more than happy to help with any conservation efforts (I am a retired chemical engineer and have lots of experience in taking and handling samples )

I really appreciate everybody's help look forward to our next visit and a new experience.

Thanks

PS - is September considered "Rainy Season" and if so, what can we expect??

 

[curious2dive]

Hi TN,

That's funny because I'm also a chemical Engineer. Not retired but I mad my hobby my profession. Not everybody can.
I can keep you posted about what's happening because there will be a great bunch of researchers here again.

And about the weather September is known to be the hottest month. Rainy season will start in October. It's still huriicane time and in 2008 we had Omar during spawning. And nature is unpredictable.

And ofcourse to make a video about the spawning is always great.

Regards
Hans Pleij
CURious2DIVE

 

[TN Traveler]

OK - we just booked for Sept 16-24 at LKH. Hopefully we will be able to catch the Spawn.

Bryan - is OEW going to run special night dives on the 17th & 18th??

Nice to be coming back!