Preserving the beauty of coral reefs: a key issue for conservation and sustainable tourism

[Press Release] - Published on June 19, 2025 in Press Room, Science and Society

The beauty of nature strengthens our connection to it and our desire to protect it. This is particularly true of coral reefs, the planet’s colorful jewels, which are now under threat. An international study led by researchers from the University of Montpellier, the CNRS, and their partners, published on Monday, June 16, 2025, in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), reveals how the aesthetics of reefs influence their conservation and highlights the importance of incorporating this aspect into environmental policies.

Photo credit: Rick Stuart-Smith

When the beauty of fish becomes a tool for conservation

An international team of researchers studied the perceived beauty of more than 3,500 groups of tropical fish from around the world. By combining data from a global coral reef monitoring program with online surveys on fish aesthetics, they demonstrated that beauty depends both on the number of species present and on the presence of particularly striking species. With their bright colors or unique shapes, these so-called “beautiful” fish contribute to the appeal of reefs. The study also reveals that marine protected areas enhance this beauty, particularly in tropical regions, regardless of the wealth of the countries involved.

A boon for tourism and a source of excitement

These findings call for greater consideration of the aesthetic dimension in conservation policies. More than just an ecological heritage, coral reefs are also a powerful emotional draw for local communities and visitors. Their beauty supports sustainable tourism, which is essential to the economies of many countries in the Global South. While less than 7% of coral reefs currently benefit from effective protection, this study calls for a rethinking of conservation priorities: preserving the beauty of the oceans also means preserving their power to inspire and their role in human societies.

“The beauty of coral reefs goes beyond their appearance: it strengthens our connection to nature and our desire to protect it. “Our research shows that species richness and the presence of fish with exceptional shapes or colors make reefs more beautiful, and therefore more valuable in the eyes of the public. Developing tropical countries have a unique potential to protect reefs of exceptional beauty, with ecological, cultural, and economic benefits,” says Nicolas Mouquet.