The world’s oceans are facing a crisis as unprecedented rising temperatures have led to significant coral bleaching across the globe, according to experts. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported the fourth global bleaching event on record, marking the second in the last 10 years.
“From February 2023 to April 2024, significant coral bleaching has been documented in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres of each major ocean basin,” said Derek Manzello, Ph.D., NOAA CRW coordinator.
Warmer ocean temperatures can result in the expulsion of algae that live in coral tissue, leaving the coral completely white, a phenomenon known as coral bleaching. While coral bleaching does not necessarily mean corals will die, it can have devastating effects on their ecosystems.
Mass bleaching events, where several varieties of coral reefs are affected, are largely caused by increased sea temperatures. Last month, the average global sea surface temperature reached a record 69.93 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Since early 2023, mass bleaching of coral reefs has been confirmed in various parts of the world, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. The severity and frequency of these events are a cause for concern, as they can lead to coral mortality and impact the livelihoods of those who depend on coral reefs.
In response to these challenges, NOAA has been actively implementing recommendations to increase the resilience of coral reefs. The agency’s efforts include coral restoration and management practices to mitigate the effects of coral bleaching events.
The current global coral bleaching event follows previous events in 1998, 2010, and 2014-2017, highlighting the urgent need for action to protect these vital ecosystems.