Another troubling issue that has been occurring in our ocean is coral reef bleaching. Coral reef bleaching is the process in which coral reefs lose their bright colors and die, commonly due to high ocean temperatures associated with climate change. Coral reef bleaching is a pressing issue to our oceans since these reefs are essential to many oceanic ecosystems.

Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems made of thin layers of calcium carbonate. These corals are among the most diverse and widespread ecosystems in the world. Coral reefs are typically referred to as one of our most valuable ecosystems, as the benefits they serve are tremendous in impact. They border our coastlines, protecting them from 97% storms, harsh waves and water conditions, and erosions. Various species of marine animals, from sea sponges to sharks, rely on reefs for support, shelter and even food. Reefs also support our fishing economy, including the jobs of fishermen and the operation of commercial fisheries. They rely on the beneficial environment they provide to produce any fish that may be sold. Coral reefs also aid our tourism economy since many people take scuba and diving trips to view their bright colors and large display aquatic animals.

Coral reef bleaching occurs when reefs are exposed to too much sunlight or when the ocean temperatures rise to an unsustainable temperature. Coral is known for their bright colors, which is due to the algae they possess that also serves as their source of food. When the water around the coral become too warm or polluted, those algae are expelled, therefore making the coral bleached. Bleached coral is seen as white, skeleton like branches. If left bleached too long and without these algae, the coral will die and will leave its ecosystem vulnerable. Bleaching is also a natural response to stress, yet the large-scale phenom occurring in the ocean now is far from natural. It is estimated that 75% of the worlds tropical coral reefs have experienced heat-related bleaching.

Each day, we can make small contributions to the environment that can help reduce the amount of coral reef bleaching and ultimately prevent it. Reducing stormwater and fertilizer runoff, as well as avoiding herbicides and pesticides can aid in the fight against coral reef bleaching. However, the largest and predominant cause of bleaching is the toughest to resolve. Climate change is at the root of the problem for coral reefs, which is why we must implement sustainable practices into our lives to reduce high temperatures. Not only will slowing climate change help the coral reefs, but it would also benefit just about every ecosystem in our environment. It may not be an easy task, but it’s something that is necessary – for the futures of our coral reefs and our environment.