Scientists document widespread coral deaths on Great Barrier Reef

A study found over 40% of corals at One Tree Island in the Great Barrier Reef bleached or died in 2024 due to heat stress and disease.

Graham Readfearn reports for The Guardian.

In short:

Researchers monitored 462 coral colonies at One Tree Island, finding 193 dead and 113 still bleached by July 2024.
Coral bleaching and a flesh-eating disease called black band contributed to the largest annual coral loss recorded in the area since the 1980s.
Scientists warn continued heat stress, driven by climate change, threatens even greater damage this summer.

Key quote:

"Seeing those really massive colonies die was really devastating. I have gone from being really sad to being really cranky. We have been trying to get the message across about climate change for ages."

— Prof. Maria Byrne, marine biologist, University of Sydney and study lead author

Why this matters:

Coral reefs support biodiversity, protect coastlines and sustain fisheries. Widespread bleaching signals a marine ecosystem in crisis, driven by climate change. Without mitigation efforts, continued losses could have devastating environmental and economic impacts.

www.theguardian.com

Scientists document widespread coral deaths on Great Barrier Reef

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