Global warming and climate change pose a threat to the existence of coral reefs. Coral losses along the Australian coasts have reached record levels. Scientists warn that this situation could lead to the extinction of hundreds of marine species.

The oceans are warming up, and coral losses along the Australian coasts have peaked. Coral reefs, which are home to many different species, are facing the danger of extinction due to climate change and global warming. Scientists working in the field commented, “This year, the excessively warm oceans have practically boiled the coral reefs. If I say ‘we haven’t seen anything like this before,’ I wouldn’t be exaggerating. The western coast of Australia is under immense heat stress, and the whitening of the reefs is increasing.” Coral reefs are slowly dying. The warming of the oceans and seas increases the acidity level of the water. Coral begins to die slowly in this situation. When corals turn white due to dying, it is called “bleaching.” When corals reach this stage, cooling of the water is necessary to prevent their death. In this case, they can gradually regain their colors. Otherwise, dying and being covered with algae becomes inevitable. Overfishing and environmental pollution are also among the factors endangering corals, along with global warming. The extinction of coral reefs is highlighted as potentially causing the demise of hundreds of marine species.