Almost all shallow-water coral reefs now face extinction risk, study warns
Summary
A global study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) warns that 96% of the world's shallow-water coral reefs are at very high risk of collapse within the next 50 years. The report highlights that rising ocean temperatures from climate change and extreme weather events are the main threats to these important ecosystems.Key Facts
- The IUCN classified 96% of shallow-water coral reefs as “critically endangered,” the highest risk category.
- Coral reef collapse could happen by the year 2075 if current trends continue.
- Coral reefs are sensitive to heat and suffer from bleaching—a stress reaction caused by rising ocean temperatures.
- When reefs collapse, hard corals die and are replaced by algae and sponges, reducing biodiversity.
- Major reef systems like the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Triangle are critically endangered.
- The study used a climate scenario projecting global temperatures rising 2.7°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100.
- Coral reefs support about 25% of marine species and provide food, tourism jobs, and coastal protection.
- Despite severe risks, some coral reefs have shown resilience and can recover if conditions improve.
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