Record Coral Bleaching Event Affects 77% of Reefs

The ongoing global coral bleaching event, which began in February 2023, has reached unprecedented levels, impacting 77% of the world's coral reef areas, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This event, now the largest on record, has surpassed the previous record by over 11% in just half the time. Triggered by rising ocean temperatures due to climate change, coral bleaching occurs when corals expel their symbiotic algae, leading to vulnerability to disease and starvation. The current crisis has been confirmed in 74 countries, with scientists warning of dire implications for coral reef ecosystems, fisheries, and tourism. NOAA has called for an emergency session at the upcoming UN Convention on Biological Diversity to discuss urgent strategies to address the situation. Experts indicate that if high ocean temperatures persist, we may face a future of chronic global bleaching.