Have the world’s coral reefs already crossed a tipping point?

About a year ago, a severe heatwave hit the world’s oceans, causing them to warm to unprecedented levels. Despite a year passing, the oceans remain hotter than usual, posing a threat to coral reefs, which are home to a quarter of marine life and vital for coastal communities. Coral reefs are extremely sensitive to rising temperatures, making them susceptible to bleaching events, like the current one that scientists warn could be the worst in history. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel algae living in their tissues, turning them white and starving them. This leads to devastating consequences for ecosystems and coastal communities that rely on reefs for food and protection. As global temperatures continue to rise, coral reefs face an uncertain future, with many scientists fearing they may have already reached a tipping point. Urgent action is needed to address climate change and protect these vital ecosystems before it’s too late.