McGuirk, R. (2022, May 11). Most Great Barrier Reef coral studied this year was bleached. AP NEWS. Retrieved June 10, 2022, from https://apnews.com/article/climate-science-australia-united-nations-corals-0bbcbcf4eaed841a5a72b4d4f3d40587

In Australia, approximately 91% of coral in the Great Barrier Reef, world’s largest coral reef ecosystem, was bleached. Caused by global warming, for years bleaching has always been a massive threat to the health of coral reefs. Coral bleaches itself as a “heat stress response”, however, according to the article, mortality rates remain low as they hope for the coral to recover. Coral bleaching can be prevented through global emission reductions, which can also prevent marine heatwaves. Algae is responsible for the coral’s “kaleidoscope of colors” and feed polyps.  Due to rising ocean temperatures, the algae inside the reefs produce toxins, and when the coral spits out the toxic algae, it simultaneously bleaches itself since there is no more color from the algae. Soon, heat stress leads to the coral dying of starvation. 

 

This article draws attention to the reality of how fast coral is dying. The great barrier reef, responsible for 10% of the worlds coral, being damaged from climate change and rising ocean temperatures reveals the large extent of this global issue. Coral bleaching being given attention from politicians is good and brings hope for a brighter future for coral, as Prime Ministers and Labor Parties have set aims to reduce emissions. I think the publicizing of this issue through politics will raise awareness and advocates in coming generations.