CORAL REEFS ARE IN PERIL
Global warming has been taking its toll on many species of fauna as well as flora, and it seems that the reefs are its latest victim. The reefs around the world provide habitat for up to three million marine species, protect low-lying islands from floods and high waves as well as generate good quality beach sand. However they have been harmed by the pollution, sediment, warming seas, ships and careless divers. It is estimated that up to 27% of world coral has died and 40% could be gone by 2010.
The tourism as well as inhabitants of the shorelines have a huge impact on the corals, however people living in the areas remote from the seas influence the reefs in as much negative way, e.g. nitrogen-rich sewage or fertilizers, which end up in the sea waters. The nitrogen and phosphorus increase the growth of macroalgae (seaweed), which eventually leads to dying out of corals. Combined with extensive fishing, this poses a serious thread since the fish feed on the seaweed therefore reducing its amounts. Other factors include deforestation, soil erosion, overgrazing, irresponsible industrial farming and sewage spills that all lead to the destruction of coral. Fortunately, the scientists state that the reefs can recover from the effects of the pollution and overgrown algae if protected.
The biggest threat however, seem to be the overall warming of the oceans, which is caused (similarly to the climate warming) by the burning of fossil fuels. Melting glaciers increase the sea levels 1-2 millimeters a year. Moreover, even the slightest rise in the water temperatures causes the algae to leave corals, thus causing them to loose their color and energy source and die. This is a widespread phenomenon known as ‘bleaching’.
Corals are extremely important not only for the oceans but many humans as well. The disappearing reefs pose a threat to the Pacific Islands since the demise of coral means the lack of protection against the land loss. Furthermore, as the sustenance of life, coral is an indicator of the state of the global environmental health. Hence, we should so whatever is in our power to preserve not only coral reefs but all kinds of live on Earth as well.
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