Why Is Coral Reef Perishing?

Despite their beauty and importance coral reefs around the world are disappearing fast. Water pollution, overfishing and coastal development are taking their toll on coral reefs at the local level, while carbon pollution threatens reefs worldwide and remains their biggest threat.

Why does coral bleaching happen?

The leading cause of coral bleaching is climate change. A warming planet means a warming ocean, and a change in water temperature—as little as 2 degrees Fahrenheit—can cause coral to drive out algae. Coral may bleach for other reasons, like extremely low tides, pollution, or too much sunlight.

What is the main cause of coral reef degradation?

Water pollution is perhaps the most obvious cause of coral reef destruction. Reefs are harmed when oil, fertilizer, and human or animal waste are dumped in the area. ... Floating trash can also cut young coral polyps off from the nutrients they need to grow into a thriving reef.