Exploring ecological facilitation toward precision coral reef restoration

The discipline of coral reefs restoration is advancing rapidly in response to accelerating global degradation, however, many current practices remain reactive, technique-driven, and often lack integration with ecological theory. Here, we promote ecological facilitation as a valuable yet underused framework for guiding coral reef restoration. Drawing insights from well-established terrestrial restoration principles, we show how three key ecological facilitation processes, herbivore-controlled competition, density-dependent interactions, and habitat provisioning are already embedded, though often overlooked, in current coral restoration practices. An overview of recent studies reveals that facilitative mechanisms often drive positive outcomes like increased transplant survival, reduced algal cover, and enhanced biodiversity. By reframing coral gardening and related interventions through the lens of ecological facilitation, we offer a more predictive and functionally integrated pathway for reef restoration. We outline practical consideration for implementation and encourage future research to experimentally test facilitation thresholds, optimal species combination, and integrated restoration designs. Ecological facilitation offers a vital link between theory and practice, providing a roadmap for developing more resilient and effective restoration strategies.