Coral reefs around the world are experiencing global bleaching for the fourth time, top reef scientists declared Monday, a result of warming ocean waters amid human-caused climate change.
Coral reef bleaching across at least 53 countries, territories or local economies has been confirmed from February 2023 to now, scientists from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and International Coral Reef Initiative said. It happens when stressed coral expel the algae that are their food source and give them their color. If the bleaching is severe and long-lasting, the coral can die.
Coral reefs are important ecosystems that sustain underwater life, protect biodiversity and slow erosion. They also support local economies through tourism.
Bleaching has been happening in various regions for some time. In the world’s largest coral reef ecosystem, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, bleaching affected 90% of the coral assessed in 2022. The Florida Coral Reef, the third-largest, experienced significant bleaching last year.
Verona confirms Serie A status for another year after beating Salernitana
Ahead of United Methodist gathering, African churches weigh their future
Panel discussions held during BFA Annual Conference 2024
China sets 2024 GDP growth target at around 5%, showing confidence in economic recovery
Trump accepts a VP debate but wants it on Fox News. Harris has already said yes to CBS
Feature: Australian winemaker excited about re
Energy storage industry put on fast track in China
Interview: China's economic landscape displays stable, diversified trend: economist
Strictly star Giovanni Pernice's former partner Rose Ayling
China ready to unleash growth potential
Children are evacuated from school 'during an exam' after threat made via email
Metamorphic rock oilfield in Bohai Sea sees cumulative proven reserves over 200 mln cubic meters