Seabird Guano Fuels Reef Growth Against Rising Seas

Low-lying atoll islands face threats from rising sea levels, but some coral reefs are adapting. Research indicates that healthy seabird populations are critical for this adaptation. Seabirds' droppings provide essential nutrients that significantly accelerate coral reef growth. Islands lacking these seabirds, often due to invasive rats consuming their eggs and chicks, exhibit slower reef development.

Furthermore, native forests contribute to island resilience through their extensive root systems that bind soil. This is contrasted with islands dominated by coconut palms, which have less effective root structures. The study highlights that interconnected island and reef systems can adapt naturally if undisturbed by invasive species like rats. Eradicating these predators is presented as a top priority for enhancing both biodiversity and climate resilience.