The Great Barrier Reef has recorded its worst annual decline in coral cover in nearly four decades, raising significant concerns regarding its future health, according to the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS). The report detailed unprecedented bleaching across northern and southern parts of the reef, primarily driven by heat stress from climate change.
Great Barrier Reef Experiences Historic Coral Decline Due to Climate Change
Great Barrier Reef Experiences Historic Coral Decline Due to Climate Change
Recent report reveals alarming coral cover drop in the Great Barrier Reef, signaling urgent need for climate action.
The health assessment, conducted on 124 coral reefs from August 2024 to May 2025, indicates that persistent tropical cyclones and an explosion in crown-of-thorns starfish populations have worsened the situation. These starfish, known to devastate coral, thrive due to nutrient runoff from agriculture, exacerbating the reef's troubles.
The report showcases staggering bleaching events, with the reef suffering from extensive heat stress. Bleaching typically occurs when water temperatures rise significantly, causing corals to expel the algae living within them. Unfortunately, the Great Barrier Reef has faced six major bleaching events since 2016, with this most recent episode being especially severe.
Dr. Mike Emslie from AIMS emphasized the importance of protecting the reef, highlighting the adaptive potential of corals if given enough time. Alongside the monitoring efforts, the Australian government has initiated successful culling of crown-of-thorns starfish, which has halted severe infestations in parts of the reef.
Environmental advocates warn the Great Barrier Reef could suffer irreparable damage without immediate and robust climate action. Despite its heritage-listed status, UNESCO has classified the reef as "in danger" from rising sea temperatures, signifying an alarming trajectory for one of the planet's most vital ecosystems.
Richard Leck of WWF noted that the report underscores the dire conditions under which the reef survives, urging swift international efforts to mitigate climate change and protect at-risk marine environments worldwide.
The report showcases staggering bleaching events, with the reef suffering from extensive heat stress. Bleaching typically occurs when water temperatures rise significantly, causing corals to expel the algae living within them. Unfortunately, the Great Barrier Reef has faced six major bleaching events since 2016, with this most recent episode being especially severe.
Dr. Mike Emslie from AIMS emphasized the importance of protecting the reef, highlighting the adaptive potential of corals if given enough time. Alongside the monitoring efforts, the Australian government has initiated successful culling of crown-of-thorns starfish, which has halted severe infestations in parts of the reef.
Environmental advocates warn the Great Barrier Reef could suffer irreparable damage without immediate and robust climate action. Despite its heritage-listed status, UNESCO has classified the reef as "in danger" from rising sea temperatures, signifying an alarming trajectory for one of the planet's most vital ecosystems.
Richard Leck of WWF noted that the report underscores the dire conditions under which the reef survives, urging swift international efforts to mitigate climate change and protect at-risk marine environments worldwide.
