Threats to Corals: Understanding and Taking Action
Coral reefs, true treasures of biodiversity, cover less than 1% of the ocean surface but are home to approximately 25% of marine life. However, these vital ecosystems are threatened by many factors that jeopardize their survival and, by extension, the balance of the oceans and our planet.
The main threats to corals
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Global warming: Rising ocean temperatures are a major cause of coral bleaching. This occurs when corals expel zooxanthellae, the microalgae that live in symbiosis with them, causing them to bleach and often die.
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Ocean acidification: Increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere dissolves in the water and causes a drop in the pH of the oceans. This weakens the limestone skeleton of corals, making it harder for them to grow and making them more vulnerable.
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Marine pollution: Plastics, heavy metals and other chemical pollutants disrupt marine life and damage reefs. Corals exposed to these toxins see their survival rates plummet.
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Overfishing and destructive practices: Techniques like dynamite fishing destroy not only fish populations, but also the reefs themselves. This practice is particularly destructive in Indonesia, where it has left entire areas transformed into marine deserts.
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Unsustainable coastal development: Construction near shore increases sediment runoff that can smother coral reefs. In addition, excessive urbanization leads to changes in marine habitats.
What can we do?
There are solutions to reverse these trends. Initiatives such as coral reef restoration, led by organizations like Coral Guardian, engage local communities and promote sustainable practices. Outreach efforts, such as those undertaken by Martin Colognoli, combine art and science to help educate the public about the importance of protecting these ecosystems.
Conclusion
Coral preservation is not only an environmental issue, but also an economic and human one. To ensure the survival of reefs and the biodiversity they shelter, it is essential to take concerted measures and raise awareness among as many people as possible about the importance of this ecosystem.
