What is Coral Bleaching?
Under normal conditions, reef-building corals share a mutualistic relationship with a species the microscopic algae Zooxanthellae. Through photosynthesis, this vital algae fuels the coral’s metabolism, growth, and reproduction in exchange for a protected environment.
When exposed to stress, corals expel Zooxanthellae in an environmental phenomenon known as Coral Bleaching.
During bleaching, the coral's tissue becomes transparent, exposing its deathly white skeleton. Although the corals aren't yet dead, they are at significantly higher risks of starvation and disease.
Bleached Coral (left) vs Healthy Coral (right).
Photo credit: The Ocean Agency
Effects of Coral Bleaching
Often termed the cradle of the seas, our coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots, supporting more than 25% of all marine life. The loss of reefs would lead to the loss of the habitats of numerous marine species.
Humans rely just as heavily on coral reefs. Overall, reefs worldwide are estimated to provide $9.9 trillion worth of ecosystem and economic services to communities worldwide.
However, coral bleaching is putting our coral reefs on the brink of extinction.
Without recovery, these irreplaceable biodiversity reservoirs and the millions who depend on them face total collapse.
Widespread Bleaching in the Ningaloo Reef.
Photo credit: CCWA
How You Can Help Save Our Reefs
Coral bleaching is a global crisis, but we have the power to reverse it. No matter where you live, there are several actionable steps you can take to ensure a better future for our reefs.
1. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Simple daily actions, such as using less electricity, walking short distances, or reducing food waste, can go a long way towards combating climate change and saving our reefs.
3. Buy Reef-Friendly Products
Check labels before buying! Chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate severely damage reefs and causes bleaching. Prioritize non-nano sunscreens and recyclable items.
2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Save our reefs by choosing reusable items instead of single-use plastics. These simple shifts help curb the pollution linked to declining ocean health and the destruction of coral reefs.
4. Donate to Coral Reef Conservation
By donating to organizations such as the Coral Reef Alliance and the Coral Restoration Foundation, you can help fund restoration projects that improve the health of our oceans.