The Great Barrier Reef, a natural wonder stretching 2,300km along the north-east coast of Australia, is a vibrant ecosystem home to hundreds of coral species. With an area roughly equivalent to Italy, it is a crucial ecosystem that supports countless marine species. However, the future of this magnificent reef is uncertain due to rapid global warming.
The recent southern-hemisphere summer, which ended in February, was one of the most destructive in the reef’s history. The primary cause of this devastation was unprecedented thermal stress that the reef experienced. This stress is a combination of high temperatures and their persistence, which can have catastrophic effects on corals. In the southern third of the reef, sea-surface temperatures soared up to 2.5°C above average. While the full extent of the damage is still unknown, some corals are already perishing. It is estimated that up to half of the corals may die according to Neal Cantin from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS).
This severe thermal stress highlights the urgent need for action to protect this invaluable natural treasure for future generations. Efforts must be made to address the root causes of warming temperatures and preserve the delicate balance of this precious ecosystem. Only through collective action can we safeguard the Great Barrier Reef and ensure its survival against threats such as climate change and pollution.
