Coral Bleaching Is Threatening Ecosystem of Hawaiian Coastline
- 9 years ago
Exceedingly warm oceanic temperatures are threatening the life of Hawaii's coral.
Hawaii's coral reef is in danger.
Increased temperatures are forcing out much of the algae that give the corals their color. Bleaching results in corals looking pale and whitish—a stark contrast to their typically vivid appearance.
But it's not just aesthetic appeal at stake; bleaching leaves coral weaker, unable to fend off disease and more susceptible to death.
Bleaching occurs in water temperatures just one to two degrees higher than usual. This year, the waters off the Hawaiian coastline are at least two to four degrees higher than usual.
Hawaii's coral reef is in danger.
Increased temperatures are forcing out much of the algae that give the corals their color. Bleaching results in corals looking pale and whitish—a stark contrast to their typically vivid appearance.
But it's not just aesthetic appeal at stake; bleaching leaves coral weaker, unable to fend off disease and more susceptible to death.
Bleaching occurs in water temperatures just one to two degrees higher than usual. This year, the waters off the Hawaiian coastline are at least two to four degrees higher than usual.