The Threat To Coral Reefs

Corals are extremely sensitive to any changes in the sea. Thus, global warming and the subsequent rise in the temperatures of oceans can prove fatal for them. Another threat to them is coral bleaching, which occurs when more sunlight hits the reefs. This causes the single-celled algae that provide corals with nutrients and colour to die out. As a result, the corals whiten and die.

Losing another ally

Coral reefs act as natural sinks for carbon dioxide. This means that they absorb CO₂, a major contributor to global warming. The largest coral reef on Earth is the Great Barrier Reef, located in Australia.