Discover the alarming rate of coral bleaching, where 60.5% of reefs faced severe heat stress last year, threatening their survival. Urgent action against climate change is imperative.
Alarming Rate of Coral Bleaching Highlights Climate Threat
A stark new report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reveals a dire situation for the world's coral reefs. According to the agency, a staggering 60.5% of coral reefs have experienced heat stress severe enough to trigger bleaching in the past year. This number is concerningly high and continues to climb.
Fourth Mass Bleaching Event in Recent History
This widespread bleaching marks the fourth mass bleaching event on record, directly linked to climate change and the El Niño weather pattern. The combined effects have caused ocean temperatures to soar to unprecedented levels, placing immense stress on coral reefs.
Concerns for the Future of Coral Reefs
"The state of the world's coral reefs is very worrying," stated Derek Manzello, NOAA's Coral Reef Watch coordinator, during a monthly briefing. He emphasized the extreme nature of the current ocean temperatures, posing a significant threat to coral survival.
Coral Bleaching: A Sign of Distress
When corals experience heat stress, they expel the algae living within their tissues. These algae provide crucial color and nutrients to the coral. Bleached corals, deprived of these algae, turn white and become vulnerable to starvation and disease.
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Urgent Action Needed to Protect Coral Reefs
The alarming rate of coral bleaching underscores the urgency of addressing climate change. Implementing effective measures to curb global warming and protect vital ecosystems like coral reefs is critical.
Source: Reuters
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