Corals represent an exceptional biodiversity, and are present in both tropical and cold waters. Scientists estimate that coral reefs are home to more than 25% of marine species and yet they cover less than 0.2% of the ocean. Corals are also at the core of the formation of other ecosystems.
Corals are very sensitive to temperature changes. 1 to 2°C increase in surface water temperature above the usual maxima is enough to cause massive bleaching, affecting reef growth, feeding, and other ecological processes. The IPCC’s forecasts anticipate a global temperature increase of 1.5°C by 2050. This means that ocean surface water will continue to warm.
CORALS ARE ESSENTIAL
source: www.coralguardian.org
Comments