What is the current state of the world's coral reefs?

Over half of the world's coral reefs are experiencing moderate to severe bleaching, and 15% have suffered significant mortality due to ocean warming.

What causes widespread coral bleaching events?

Ocean warming is the primary cause, increasing the frequency, extent, and severity of coral bleaching and mortality across global reefs.

What are the benefits of coral reefs?

Coral reefs prevent coastal damage from waves and storms, support biodiversity, and are crucial for tourism and food security.

Home / Environment / Half of World's Coral Reefs Hit by Bleaching

Half of World's Coral Reefs Hit by Bleaching

11 Feb

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Summary

Over half of the world's coral reefs have experienced moderate or worse bleaching.
15% of global reefs have suffered significant coral mortality due to warming.
Coral reefs prevent damage from waves, storms, and erosion.

Half of World's Coral Reefs Hit by Bleaching

Recent scientific analysis confirms that more than half of the world's coral reefs are currently experiencing moderate to severe bleaching. The study, which examined data from over 15,000 reefs globally, also found that 15% have suffered significant mortality.

Ocean warming is increasingly recognized as the main cause behind the heightened frequency, extent, and severity of coral bleaching events. This phenomenon is impacting reefs across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans.

Researchers noted that the current Fourth Global Coral Bleaching Event, which began in early 2023, is even more severe than previous occurrences. This ongoing crisis threatens the irreversible degradation of these essential marine ecosystems.