Threat to Coral Reefs by Krisha Shah

 Threat to Coral Reefs

by Krisha Shah

Coral reefs are in danger! They are facing many threats and the issue is becoming more alarming. To begin, coral reefs are an important aspect to our environment for a variety of reasons. Coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Coral reefs support many animals and promote biodiversity. Recently, coral reefs are in danger due to ocean warming. Anthropogenic activities such as the combustion of coal has contributed to this issue. Combustion of coal releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the air. One of the largest carbon dioxide sinks is the ocean. Oceans take in this carbon dioxide which causes the ocean to become warmer. This leads to ocean acidity, which is where the pH of oceans decrease. As a result of the change in ocean climate, coral reefs are no longer able to survive and began to bleach. This can also lead to death. The coral reefs are unable to take these changes and stresses the corals which is what causes coral bleaching. To prevent this, humans need to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emissions. For instance, instead of the combustion of coal, humans should focus on other methods such as combustion of natural gas which releases less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. 

Works Cited

NOAA. “Coral Reef Ecosystems.” www.noaa.gov. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, February 25, 2025. https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/marine-life/coral-reef-ecosystems.