Coral Bleaching Now Affects 84% of Ocean Reefs

Coral bleaching has reportedly damaged 84% of the world’s coral reefs. These observations of degraded reefs reflect the most intense oceanic habitat destruction ever recorded. Since 1998, it’s the fourth global bleaching event. Surpassing the damage done from 2014 to 2017 that affected two-thirds of the world’s coral reefs. The current crisis began in 2023 and is ongoing. Experts are reporting that ocean temperature levels may remain too high to stop future coral bleaching.

Rising Ocean Temperatures Lead to Coral Reefs Decline

The main cause of coral bleaching is the rising temperature of ocean water. In 2023, Earth experienced its hottest year on record, with much of the heat being absorbed by the ocean. The average sea temperature in many areas reached a record 20.87°C (69.57°F). This level of heat puts corals under stress, causing them to eject the algae that live on and inside them. These algae not only give coral their bright colors but also serve as their main source of food. When the algae are ejected, the coral turns white and is more likely to die.

Coral Bleaching’s Impact on Marine Life and Communities

Coral reefs are home to approximately 25% of all marine species. Often called the “rainforests of the sea” because of their rich biodiversity. Healthy reefs also protect coastlines from storms and erosion, support fishing industries, and attract tourism. When coral bleaching damages these reefs, it threatens marine life.

Because of the extreme nature of the current coral bleaching, scientists had to expand the alert scale used by the U.S. Coral Reef Watch program. This change shows just how widespread and intense coral bleaching has become and how dire the situation is.

Global Efforts to Save Coral Reefs

In the Netherlands, scientists are growing new corals in labs using fragments from places like the Seychelles. These corals may one day help restore wild reefs. In Florida, conservation groups are rescuing coral damaged by heat. Nursing them back to health and returning them to the ocean. These restoration efforts give hope, even as the threat of coral bleaching continues to grow.

EcoCentricNow’s Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

ECN’s mission is to promote environmental stewardship by distributing well-designed, long-lasting, energy-efficient LED lighting products and supplies that foster ecological sustainability and human well-being. We pursue our mission by volunteering in local beach and wetland cleanups. Restoring native vegetation. And supporting aquaculture practices for the farming of sustainable seafood.

References
Advancing Ocean Stewardship. 50 Years of BOEM Ecological Assessment
Report: Coral bleaching at highest level ever recorded
How rising water temperatures impact marine and aquatic life
84% of the world’s coral reefs hit by worst bleaching event on record