A fourth global coral bleaching event has been confirmed by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Widespread bleaching has been reported across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans.
The coral reefs provide an important ecosystem for much marine life, which depends on them for survival. They also provide a livelihood for many people.
The Summer snapshot report released by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Australian Institute of Marine Science provides a summary of conditions of the Great Barrier Reefs health throughout summer. It said:
‘’The recent global pattern of extreme heat, driven by climate change has adversely affected many coral reefs globally, including the Great Barrier Reef.’’
‘’Prolonged exposure to higher-than-average water temperatures this summer has caused widespread coral bleaching throughout the Reef.’’
‘’Climate change remains the greatest threat to the Reef. It influences weather patterns and the ocean’s temperature, pH level and currents, as well as intensifying the effects of other threats.’’
The report by the NOAA states ‘’ Coral bleaching, especially on a widespread scale, impacts economies, livelihoods, food security and more, but it does not necessarily mean corals will die. If the stress driving the bleaching diminishes, corals can recover and reefs can continue to provide the ecosystem services we all rely on.’’
The International Coral Reef Initiative, which NOAA co-chairs, has an action plan to drive the conservation, management and restoration of coral reefs which includes urgent action against climate change and to conserve and sustainably use the seas resources.