Coral Bleaching

Global Warming is the average increase of temperatures across the globe. Although it is difficult to say when the current global warming began, the effects are becoming more and more prevalent. Over the next century, the global temperature is projected to continue to rise, and the effects will increase as well. Here is an article from National Geographic that discusses the major Effects of Global Warming.

Global warming is also one of the leading threats to the Great Barrier Reef and coral reefs all over the world. The effect is called coral bleaching. I am still trying to understand all the details, but the Coral Reef Alliance gives a great description and describes the process of coral bleaching.

Coral bleaching "...occurs when coral polyps, stressed by heat or ultraviolet radiation, expel the algae that live within them. These algae, called zooxanthellae, normally provide the coral with up to 80% of its energy, making zooxanthellae essential for coral survival. The algae are also normally responsible for the color of coral, so when they are expelled, the color appears white or "bleached." There is a chance that bleached coral can recover if conditions return to normal quickly enough." Coral Reef Alliance Website.


Photo Credit: ABC News

If the ocean temperatures continue to rise, the algae will leave and the coral will die. There are simple things that everyone can do on a daily basis to prevent or slow down global warming, which could eventually stop coral bleaching.

-Be aware of the amount of electricity you use. When you leave a room, turn off the lights and any other appliances you are not using.

-Replace regular light bulbs with energy-efficient bulbs.

-Use only the amount of water you need. Make sure your washer is full before doing a load of laundry, and try to limit the amount of time you are in the shower.

-Walk, ride a bike or use public transportation when possible as an alternative to driving.

-Recycle in your home and buy recycled products.

-Use recyclable bags when going to the store as an alternative to plastic grocery bags.

-Only run your heater or air conditioner when it is necessary.

-Spread awareness! The more people who know, the better!

There are some great websites that give detailed lists of how to prevent global warming. Check them out! There are also some conservation groups in Australia and around the world who have started campaigns to decrease the effects of global warming, and ultimately the threats to the Great Barrier Reef. I will go into more detail about these groups in an upcoming post, but here is a video from one of these groups, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, talking about Coral Bleaching.

GBRMPA Coral Bleaching Video


Photo Credit: Whitsunday Boat Show