Scientists Pinpoint How Ocean Acidification Weakens Coral Skeletons
The rising acidity of the oceans threatens coral reefs by making it harder for corals to build their skeletons. A new study identifies the details of how ocean acidification affects coral skeletons, allowing scientists to predict more precisely where corals will be more vulnerable.
2018 International Year of the Reef, UNEP
Over the last three decades, half of the planet’s coral has died under rising water temperatures and ocean acidification. To address this global crisis, global environmental leaders and countries have named this the International Year of the Reef.
Great Barrier Reef coral bleaching has started early, biologist says
Warm water has already begun bleaching coral on the Great Barrier Reef, weeks ahead of the period with highest forecast risk. Satellite data suggest widespread bleaching is possible by March.
Great Barrier Reef protected zones help fish in even lightly exploited areas
Protected zones of the Great Barrier Reef benefit fish even at the relatively lightly-fished northern reefs, according to a new study.
6 fascinating facts about coral reefs
Coral reefs are one of the world’s most colorful and diverse ecosystems, and though they cover only about 1 percent of the ocean floor, they have a huge effect on the health of the rest of the world. Healthy coral reefs mean healthy oceans which means healthy planet.
Worldwide change in shallow reef ecosystems predicted as waters warm
A new study based on the first global survey of marine life by scuba divers has provided fresh insights into how climate change is affecting the distribution of marine life.
There’s still time to save the Great Barrier Reef from dying
Two major bleaching events have wracked the Great Barrier Reef over the last two years, leaving chunks of it dead.
Historical nautical maps show loss of coral reefs
Scientists have used detailed nautical maps created by British sailors in the 1700s to study more than two centuries of coral loss in the Florida Keys. They found that over the past 240 years, the region has lost more than half of its coral structures, with some areas, particularly closer to shore, either gone completely or having lost up to 90 percent of their extent.
Paris agreement’s 1.5C target ‘only way’ to save coral reefs, Unesco says
First global assessment of climate change impact on world heritage-listed reefs says local efforts are ‘no longer sufficient’…