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Source-This post on Fifth mass coral bleaching event has been created based on the article “Fifth mass coral bleaching event in eight years hit Great Barrier Reef, marine park authority confirms” published in “The Guardian” on 8th March 2024.
Why in the news?
The Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its fifth mass coral bleaching event in eight years.
About Coral bleaching
1. About: When corals are stressed by changes in conditions such as temperature, light, or nutrients, they expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn completely white. This is called coral bleaching.
2. Causes: Change in ocean temperature caused by climate change, run-off and pollution storm, overexposure to sunlight, extreme low tides cause coral bleaching.
3. Impact on wildlife: Coral reefs support some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet:
i) Coral reefs are vital ecosystems supporting diverse marine life, including sea turtles, fish, crabs, and more.
ii) They offer shelter, breeding grounds, and protection, crucial for many species’ survival. Reef collapse threatens this biodiversity, risking extinction for at-risk species.
4. Impact on Humans: It threatens livelihoods, food security, and safety.
i) Reefs act as natural barriers, protecting coastal communities from waves and storm surges. Without them, costly and less effective seawalls become necessary, harming the environment.
ii) Bleaching exacerbates overfishing by disrupting the food web and depriving species of vital habitats for spawning. This impacts those reliant on marine resources for income and sustenance.
iii) Reef tourism is a multi-billion-dollar industry faces jeopardy as bleached reefs deter visitors and impact local economies and jobs.
Read more: Coral bleaching
UPSC Syllabus: Environment Conservation
