Climate change modifies the composition of reefs
Corals devastated by climate change are being replaced naturally by other species such as gorgonians, which are less efficient in acting as a carbon sink. A study has analyzes for the first time why gorgonians are more resistant than corals to human impacts and global climate change.
Catastrophic construction: Storms can build reef islands in atoll regions
Many coral reef islands, or atolls, are created by water moving sand and gravel, piling it up into consecutive ridged layers. However, new research has uncovered a different type of island construction: storm-deposited boulders.
Is the Great Barrier Reef recovering from coral bleaching?
Is the Great Barrier Reef recovering from coral bleaching? A CBS Video featuring Dr Mark Aerin, Coordinator NOAA Coral Reef Watch.
Why the Great Barrier Reef is in danger
One of Earth’s most impressive ecosystems is in dire straits. Here are the main issues threatening this magnificent natural wonder.
Scientists in Fiji examine how forest conservation helps coral reefs
Researchers from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa (UH Mānoa), WCS (Wildlife Conservation Society), and other groups are discovering how forest conservation in Fiji can minimize the impact of human activities on coral reefs and their fish populations.
Scientists discover hidden deep-sea coral reef off South Carolina Coast
In South Carolina, 160 miles off Charleston’s coast a giant deep-sea coral reef system has been hiding for thousands of years. The chief scientist who helped make the discovery called it unbelievable.
Children living on Indonesia’s coast get free goggles to enjoy – and save – precious reef
Indonesia’s maritime affairs minister has come up with an unconventional way to help preserve precious reefs from marine pollution: distribute boatloads of free goggles to children in the archipelago’s remote coastal regions. She wants to give next generation ‘the eyes’ to appreciate the marine world.
Deep-diving scientists say shallow reefs can’t rely on twilight zone systems for recovery
A team of highly trained scientific divers explored Pacific and western Atlantic reefs to test a widely held hypothesis that climate-stressed life from shallow reefs can take refuge at mesophotic depths.The results are clear: deep and shallow reefs are different systems with their own species, and deep reefs are just as threatened by climate impacts, storms, and pollution.
Success of conservation efforts for important Caribbean Reef fish hinges on climate change
Marine scientists predict climate change might severely hinder efforts to protect populations of the endangered and iconic Nassau grouper by the end of this century.