The Impact of Climate Change on Coral Reefs

How does climate change affect coral reefs?

Climate change has a significant impact on coral reefs. Rising sea temperatures can cause coral bleaching, where corals expel the algae living in their tissues, turning them white and leaving them vulnerable to disease. Additionally, ocean acidification, resulting from the absorption of carbon dioxide by seawater, can hinder the ability of corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons.

Impact of Rising Sea Temperatures

Rising sea temperatures due to climate change can lead to coral bleaching events. Corals have a symbiotic relationship with algae called zooxanthellae, which provide them with essential nutrients and give them their vibrant colors. However, when corals are stressed by high temperatures, they expel the algae, causing them to turn white. Without the algae, corals are more susceptible to disease and mortality.

Ocean Acidification

Ocean acidification is another consequence of climate change that affects coral reefs. As the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases, the oceans absorb more of it, leading to a decrease in pH levels. This can inhibit the ability of corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons, essential for reef growth and structure. Ocean acidification can also impact other marine organisms that rely on calcium carbonate, disrupting the entire ecosystem.

Combined Effects

The combination of rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification poses a serious threat to coral reefs worldwide. In addition to coral bleaching and reduced coral calcification rates, climate change can also lead to decreased coral growth, altered reef structure, and shifts in species composition. Protecting coral reefs from the impacts of climate change requires global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the root causes of these environmental changes.