The increased ocean temperatures from the global warming crisis over the past year have caused the largest coral bleaching event ever recorded.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) revealed that the massive coral bleaching event began in February 2023. Satellite data indicated that over 77% of the world’s coral reefs, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific and Indian Oceans, were impacted by global warming, resulting in bleaching. This bleaching is the most severe ever recorded, affecting coral reefs in 74 countries and territories.
Coral bleaching occurs when corals experience stress due to rising ocean temperatures, causing them to expel the colorful algae living in their tissues. Without these beneficial algae, corals become pale, making them vulnerable to malnutrition and disease. Although bleached corals do not immediately die, they can only recover if the ocean temperatures cool down.
Scientists estimate that at least 14% of corals have died due to the two previous global bleaching events, marking a significant loss.
In response to the bleaching statistics, scientists have called for an emergency meeting on coral reefs at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Colombia later this month. World leaders will discuss final strategies to prevent coral extinction, as well as how to protect and provide additional funding for the restoration of damaged reefs.
The most recent bleaching event serves as a stark reminder that coral reefs have reached a point of irreversible damage, which could have severe consequences for the oceans and human fisheries. Coral reefs generate about $2.7 trillion in revenue annually.
However, some meteorologists predict that in the coming months, the world may enter a La Niña climate pattern, which typically cools ocean temperatures. Scientists hope this could provide some opportunity for coral reefs to recover.
Source: https://www.springnews.co.th/keep-the-world/climate-change/853552
