A NEWPORT student is hoping to help save coral with her project.

Jessica Gregory, a product design graduate, has designed a 3D printed skeleton which replicates the coral's natural skeleton.

The 23-year-old, who is now working with ocean conservationist Fabien Cousteau, said: “Coral is a complex and fragile organism. It is very important to humanity as well as the planet - coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.

“But, due to human factors such as pollution, climate change and sedimentation, 30 per cent of the existing reefs could vanish in the next 30 years, in addition to the vast amount of reefs which have already been lost.

“Coralise is a project which aims to irradiate juvenile coral mortality, which stands at 99 per cent. There is a huge problem with coral dying.”

Miss Gregory, of Caerphilly Close, in the Rhiwderin area of Newport, said the structure she has designed is made of a ceramic material created from coral skeletons. This, along with a carefully designed organic form, attracts the young coral.

“The pattern on the product replicates the corallite structures created as coral grows its skeleton, protecting juveniles in developmental stages,” she said.

“Coralise is currently being tested but it seems like the coral will survive.

“I have been told the project could really help.”

Miss Gregory is currently studying a double masters in global innovation design, taught by both Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art.

“I have always been interested in nature and I am also interested in arts – the course allows me to combine the two,” she said.

“My focus is on designing using nature for nature, helping with environmental issues.”

To find out more about her work, visit jessicagregorydesign.com or visit coralise.co.uk