A new report shows that the hard coral cover in the Caribbean dropped by 48% between 1980 and 2024. Warmer water from climate change caused this loss. Bleaching of the Caribbean coral reef and growing human pressures also played a part.
Over 200 scientists from 44 countries participated in the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) report. They looked at 14,000 monitoring sites. The document shows the weakness of these important ecosystems, which make up 9.7% of the global total.
Climate Warming Triggers Devastating Bleaching
Caribbean coral reefs are very sensitive to rising sea temperatures. Heat stresses them. They expel symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae. These algae provide needed nutrients and bright colors. This loss leads to bleaching, and the reefs turn white and become weak against disease and death.
Large die-offs marked the decline. Reefs lost 9% in 1998 and 17.5% in 2005. Thermal stress and disease caused another 16.9% loss in 2023. Average sea surface temperatures in the Caribbean rose by 1.07°C from 1985 to 2024. This is a rate of 0.27°C per decade. The water stayed above 30°C for long periods in 2023. Morever, the greenhouse gas emissions cause ocean acidification, which adds to the crisis.
Compounded by Local Human Impacts
Populations of plant-eating species like parrotfish and sea urchins are falling. These animals keep algae in check. Their decline makes the problem worse.
Coastal populations grew by 13 million people within 20 km of reefs between 2000 and 2020, which also added pollution and building projects.
Vital Role in Ecosystems and Human Livelihoods
Caribbean coral reefs support the biodiversity and small-scale fishing. They help tourism economies. They also shield coasts from swells and storms.
Losing them hurts the marine life; however, millions of people depend on them.
Urgent Calls for Action
Scientists want to add reefs to regional climate and biodiversity plans. They require the reduction of local pressures and global emissions. They also call for the improvement of the marine protected areas. These underwater treasures were once full of life, and now they face permanent decline. Quick actions are needed.
