Together, we can shape the future of coral conservation
Bio CSL embodies a strategic partnership between two global leaders: Biosystems, the commercial division of Tropical Marine Centre, and Coral Spawning Lab. Our combined expertise in delivering Coral Spawning Systems worldwide establishes a new benchmark in the industry. Our advanced systems empower scientists at premier research institutes to conduct pioneering research in ex situ coral spawning, as well as being used in coral restoration initiatives.
We provide science-based solutions for real-world coral restoration efforts, driving innovation and sustainability in marine ecosystems.
Welcome to Bio CSL
Our premium systems, crafted from hands-on experience and backed by renowned coral scientists Dr. Jamie Craggs and Professor Michael Sweet, guarantee your success.
Tropical Marine Centre (TMC) are pioneering leaders in the aquatics industry, and have been operating multiple livestock holding facilities (including coral fragging systems) since 1974. TMC’s Biosystems division has extensive experience in delivering filtration and lighting solutions for Aquatic, Public Aquarium, Aquaculture and R&D facilities. This experience, coupled with Coral Spawning Lab’s (CSL) groundbreaking research into land-based sexual reproduction, technical knowledge obtained through coral propagation projects around the globe, and extensive experience in coral restoration projects, provide you with world leading partners and unrivalled experience.
Our solutions include:
- Broodstock Spawning Systems
- Embryo Settlement Systems
- Thermal Stress Systems
- V-Shaped Raceways
- Complete containerised solutions
- Fully customised solutions
Our People
Nick Bridel, Director, TMC
A marine biologist with extensive experience in managing a marine aquaculture hatchery, project management, and 25 years of leading the Biosystems division of Tropical Marine Centre (TMC). Specializing in the design and manufacturing of filtration systems and components, delivering solutions to clients across aquatic retail, public aquariums, aquaculture, R&D, and agricultural sectors worldwide.
Brian Schaff, CEO, TMC
With over two decades of experience in various industries, project management and research background in biotechnology engineering, and multi-species (fish, coral, and decapod) marine ornamental aquaculture, focusing on business development, business implementation and industry synergies across sectors and countries.
The Biosystems Team, TMC
Our solutions thrive thanks to our talented team, who are passionate about what we do. From meticulous design and skilled fabrication, honed through years of practical experience, to technical expertise and customer-focused support, our team ensures excellence at every step.
Dr Jamie Craggs, CSL
Pioneer of land-based coral reproduction, with 25 years of coral husbandry experience, specialist in reef restoration and coral health.
Professor Michael Sweet, CSL
Molecular ecologist and specialist in coral microbiome and coral health, with over 20 years of research and field experience.
Kate Craggs, CSL
Supplier and sponsorship director for CSL with 15+ years of project management experience.
Our Mission
Spawn and grow corals at industry scale, year round to meet the necessary demands for restoration and research purposes
Our Vision
Enable and equip every researcher, practitioner, reef manager and restorer with the capabilities to spawn coral ex situ in a controlled and reliable manner
The Science & Technology
Broodstock Spawning System
Ex situ spawning of coral is achieved using our Broodstock Spawning System through the precise manipulation of the abiotic factors that wild corals are tuned to in their natural environment. By designing systems that allow us to artificially replicate these parameters, we are able to condition corals to spawn in our land-based systems.
Seasonal temperature
Solar irradiance
Lunar cycle
Photoperiod
By providing the ability to manipulate these abiotic parameters, we are able to phase shift to produce multiple spawning events from the same broodstock. This offers massive benefits vs in situ field based collection of gametes , notably:
- Reduction in operational costs vs field-based collection of gametes
- Safer vs diving
- Provides the ability to have genetic crosses of specific individual coral broodstock, allowing for selective breeding of traits such as thermal tolerance
- Multiple spawning events per year.
Inducing multiple spawns each year
Our systems offer the ability to gather gametes from specific broodstock, conveniently in laboratory conditions.
Embryo Rearing Systems
Our Embryo Rearing Systems are designed to bolt on to our Broodstock system, and include specially designed settlement vessels incorporating frag trays and unique settlement plugs with a surface that promotes and optimises settlement, maximising successful recruitment. Lighting can be tuned to enhance growth and survivability.
V-Shaped Raceways
Our innovative V-shaped raceway is designed for efficiency, scalability, and optimal coral growth. Its modular and expandable structure allows for easy customization based on space and output needs. The V-shape reduces sedimentation stress, enhances water flow, and lowers mortality rates for juvenile corals. Inspired by natural river dynamics, it promotes energy-efficient water movement. Each 2-meter section holds 2,160 coral plugs, with the capacity to expand up to 24 sections, supporting over 50,000 plugs. When twinned with our Broodstock and Embryo Rearing Systems, it offers a complete solution for coral restoration projects.
Complete Containerised Solutions
We are also able to design, build and supply complete containerised solutions, for projects that are remote, or where space is limiting. These can be designed for ex situ spawning and settlement, or for projects requiring a containerised fragmentation solution.
Customised Systems
For researchers studying thermal stress tolerance, we offer customized systems designed to meet your needs. Our setups include multiple replicate tanks with consistent water chemistry and lighting, while allowing precise control over different temperature regimes.
We are also able to provide filtration components such as Protein Skimmers, UV Sterilisers, and Lighting and lighting control solutions to further enhance existing facilities. Please feel free to reach out and discuss your project requirements and how Bio CSL can support you.
News & Case Studies
First Success in Heat-Tolerant Coral Breeding
A groundbreaking study led by Newcastle University's Coralassist Lab has demonstrated that selective breeding can enhance the heat tolerance of corals within a single generation.
Lab-Grown Coral: A New Hope for Reef Restoration
Scientists at the University of Derby have developed a pioneering technique to breed coral in a laboratory setting, aiming to combat the decline of coral reefs caused by mass bleaching events, climate change, and overfishing.
Coral Spawning Lab Featured in BBC’s 'Our Changing Planet
In April 2023, the Coral Spawning Lab had the opportunity to film with Liz Bonnin for the BBC documentary series "Our Changing Planet."
TMC's Biosystems and Coral Spawning Lab Join Forces to Revolutionise Coral Restoration
In an exciting new partnership, Tropical Marine Centre (TMC), CSL Systems LLP (Coral Spawning Lab), and Biosystems are proud to announce the launch of Bio CSL, a range of state-of-the-art coral spawning and propagation systems.
We would love to hear from you!
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We look forward to hearing from you.