The Impact of Global Warming on Coral Reefs

How does global warming affect coral reefs?

- Increased sea temperatures
- Ocean acidification

Answer:

Global warming has a significant impact on coral reefs, primarily through increased sea temperatures and ocean acidification.

Coral reefs are highly sensitive ecosystems that are greatly affected by changes in their environment. Global warming, which is primarily caused by the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, leads to higher sea temperatures and ocean acidification.

As sea temperatures rise, coral reefs experience coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white and leaving them vulnerable to disease and death. This disrupts the delicate balance of the reef ecosystem and can have devastating effects on marine life that rely on coral reefs for shelter and food.

Furthermore, ocean acidification, a result of increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, causes the pH of the ocean to decrease. This makes it harder for corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons, leading to weaker and more brittle structures that are less able to withstand environmental stressors.

The combined effects of increased sea temperatures and ocean acidification due to global warming are threatening the survival of coral reefs around the world. Urgent action is needed to reduce carbon emissions and protect these invaluable ecosystems.