Home / Environment / Jeju's Coral Gardens Vanish
Jeju's Coral Gardens Vanish
7 Sep
Summary
- Rising temperatures and harsh weather cause coral slumping.
- Soft corals rely on fluid pressure, making them vulnerable.
- Ecosystem collapse is possible if coral loss continues.
South Korea's Jeju Island is witnessing the alarming decline of its UNESCO-listed soft corals, a vital part of its marine ecosystem. Divers first noticed the "slumping" phenomenon six years ago, characterized by corals losing their rigidity and collapsing. This year, nearly half of a significant coral cluster off Beomseom islet has been affected.
Unlike hard corals with rigid skeletons, soft corals depend on internal fluid pressure, making them susceptible to disruptions from rising temperatures and extreme weather. Researchers documented the first major "slumping" event in 2024, with fears of worsening conditions due to ongoing marine heatwaves and the potential impact of El Nino.
The loss of these soft corals, which act as nurseries for marine life, threatens the entire ecosystem of Jeju Island. Marine heatwaves around Korea have significantly lengthened over the past decade, impacting spawning seasons and reducing marine catches for local communities, including traditional "sea women."
