An international study reveals that 80% of the world's coral reefs experienced moderate to severe bleaching between 2014 and 2017, with about 35% of monitored areas showing significant mortality.
A groundbreaking study published in 'Nature Communications' indicates that between 2014 and 2017, the third global coral bleaching event affected approximately 80% of the planet's reefs to varying degrees of severity. This research is notable for its extensive data collection, combining over 15,000 surveys across different oceans, marking it as the most comprehensive analysis of this environmental crisis to date.
Coral bleaching occurs when rising sea temperatures disrupt the symbiotic relationship between corals and the microalgae that reside within their tissues, which are crucial for their energy needs. Without these algae, corals lose their vibrant colors and their ability to grow and reproduce diminishes significantly. If thermal stress is either intense or prolonged, the corals face the risk of dying, further endangering marine biodiversity.
The implications of this study are profound, not only highlighting the urgent need for action to combat climate change but also underscoring the vulnerability of marine ecosystems. With around 35% of the monitored areas facing moderate to high mortality rates, the findings serve as a wake-up call for conservation efforts aimed at protecting and restoring coral reefs, which are vital to marine life and coastal protection.
