Coral reefs are often called the rainforests of the sea — and for good reason. These vibrant underwater ecosystems cover less than 1% of the ocean floor, yet they support over 25% of all marine life. They protect coastlines from storms, power local economies through tourism and fishing, and are vital indicators of ocean health.
But coral reefs are in crisis. And that crisis is a warning siren for our planet.
Dr. Orion McCarthy, our Seatrees’ Science Lead, is helping amplify that alarm, and offering new solutions. In the latest episode of the Reality Capture Network podcast, Orion discusses how smartphone-based photogrammetry (the science of turning photos into 3D models) is transforming how we monitor and restore reefs.
The conversation, which highlights our collaboration with Samsung and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, dives deep into reef science, ecosystems, kelp, artificial intelligence, and the power of storytelling through 3D visualization.
🎧 Listen to the episode
📽️ Watch Coral in Focus
🪸 Help restore coral reefs in Fiji
Together, we can rewrite the story of our reefs — from decline to regeneration.