Shedd researchers recently returned from a trip to Florida to see how corals are coping with record-high ocean temperatures, and what we found is pretty staggering. 90-95% of corals we visited showed signs of extreme bleaching, and some coral species, such as endangered staghorn and elkhorn coral, were nearly all dead - a testament to how quickly water temperatures soared. You can immediately recognize the bleached corals in this video - what used to be vibrant shades of brown, orange and green are now stark white.
These small animals are a big deal for the thousands of animals that rely on coral reefs for food and shelter - not to mention the protection they provide our coastlines during storms and the beauty they add to the natural world. Right now, it’s unclear how these coral populations can recover.
Despite this setback, we are more committed than ever to working with partners in Florida and beyond to monitor native reefs and advocate for stronger coral safeguards and intervention strategies as ocean temperatures continue to rise. But we need everyone’s help to do it.
By subscribing to Surge - Shedd’s free, premier digital advocacy community - you will get conservation-focused news and action alerts delivered right to your inbox that provide tangible and timely ways to act and advocate for wildlife. Subscribe - bit.ly/3LKtj7i.
Thank you for helping us secure a future for coral reefs.