Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems characterized by the presence of coral, which are marine invertebrates belonging to the class Anthozoa. They typically form in tropical and subtropical waters and are built from the calcium carbonate skeletons of corals, creating structures that provide habitat for a wide variety of marine life. Coral reefs are often referred to as “rainforests of the sea” due to their rich biodiversity, supporting thousands of species, including fish, mollusks, and crustaceans, among others. They play a crucial role in marine environments by protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting fisheries, and contributing to tourism. However, coral reefs are vulnerable to threats such as climate change, pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification, which can lead to coral bleaching and the degradation of these vital ecosystems.
Mass Coral Reef Mortality: The warming of the oceans is leading to the bleaching of coral reefs, causing massive coral death. With increasing temperatures, coral bleaching becomes more frequent and severe, jeopardizing the survival of these vital ecosystems. Diminishing Ecosystems: Even though some resilient coral species may survive in isolated pockets, the vibrant ecosystems supported […]
Continue Reading