On Tue, Sep 27, 2016 at 8:51 AM, GM Writers Ten <[email protected]> wrote:

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How Global Warming is Extensively Damaging Coral Reefs

Abstract

The relative incidence of coral bleaching has increased since the late 20th century, with over 90% of coral being affected in select coastlines such as Seychelles and Tanzania. This vast destruction is bound to negatively impact the one-third of the marine fish species and other marine species in their tens of thousands that have their natural habitats in the reefs. It has also decreased the yields of marine fishing and increased the risk of damage to human populations near the coastline. Information for this study was acquired from secondary sources detailing observations of coral from various locations all over the world. Growth and survival of coral were analyzed and found to be optimum over a limited variation of physicochemical factors such as temperature, pH, water turbidity, water turbulence, and degree of sedimentation. Environmental studies have proved an increase in average world temperature of 0.8° C over the last century and a rise in carbon dioxide levels by 108ppm since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution. The dramatic increase in ocean temperature has been attributed to be the leading cause of significant mass bleaching events over the past few decades as the temperature interferes with the symbiotic relationship between coral and zooxanthellae. The increment in carbon dioxide concentration has also altered ocean pH, acidifying it to levels that are unsuitable for coral life. This paper examines the mechanisms by which increases in temperature and acidity lead to coral bleaching and subsequent death. Adaptation efforts aimed at restoration and preservation of coral reefs have been widely adopted. They include identification of more vulnerable coral species, banning of trawling in particular coral areas and the establishment of marine protected areas. More efficient campaigns aim at eradication of the primary problem, global warming, by encouraging the use of renewable energy resources and conservation of forests.

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