Bleaching

Ocean Acidification

Coral reefs are incredibly diverse ecosystems, often referred to as the "Rainforests of the sea" due to the abundance of life they support. These habitats, created by corals, provide a home to a wide variety of organisms. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, approximately 25% of the ocean's fish rely on healthy coral reefs for their survival. The nooks and crannies formed by corals offer shelter, food, and breeding grounds for fish and other organisms.

However, anthropogenic activities have placed significant stress on coral reefs. Changes in conditions such as light, nutrients, and temperature can cause corals to expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, resulting in a phenomenon known as coral bleaching. This process causes the corals to turn completely white. Unfortunately, this forced expulsion and bleaching of corals have detrimental effects on the interconnected structure of the ocean's natural ecosystem.

The accompanying colorful illustration represents the intricate and interlinked nature of the ocean's ecosystem, symbolizing the vibrant beauty of healthy coral reefs. In contrast, the monochrome illustration depicts the aftermath of human intrusion, showcasing the devastating impact of coral reef destruction and bleaching, which disrupts and damages the delicate balance of the ocean's ecosystem.