Coral aquaculture is an activity of growing interest due to the degradation of coral
reefs worldwide and concomitant growing demand for corals by three industries:
marine ornamental trade, pharmaceutical industry and reef restoration. Although
captive breeding and propagation of corals is a well-known activity among aquarium hobbyists and public aquariums, the link between coral science and aquaculture is still poorly developed. Research on coral biology has increased in the past
decades and resulted in abundant scientific information that is pivotal to further
advance coral aquaculture. This review presents a holistic overview of coral aquaculture in relation to coral biology, with particular focus onex situaquaculture.
Success factors for commercial coral aquaculture are outlined, which include
qualitative aspects, such as shape, coloration and natural product content, and
quantitative parameters such as growth and volumetric productivity. Manipulation of environmental factors to maximize coral quality and volumetric productivity is thoroughly discussed, and a comprehensive overview of current
propagation techniques is provided. Knowledge gaps are pinpointed to indicate
directions for future research.