Q.Assess the impact of global warming on coral life system with examples. (Answer in 150 words)

Introduction

Anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions have driven global warming, leading to a steady rise in ocean temperatures. This warming severely threatens marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs.

Impact of Global Warming on Corals

• Coral Bleaching: When water temperatures rise, corals expel their symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, which provide them with food and vibrant colors. This bleaching leaves corals vulnerable and often leads to widespread mortality, as observed in Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

• Ocean Mineral Fluctuations: Temperature changes alter the concentration of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium in seawater. This imbalance hinders corals' ability to calcify and build their skeletal structures, leading to the collapse of colonies, such as those in the Caribbean.

• Nutrient Depletion: Warming waters reduce the abundance of phytoplankton, the foundational nutrient source for coral ecosystems, particularly in subtropical regions.

• Mineral Loss: Sustained thermal stress causes corals to lose vital mineral components necessary for survival.

Way Forward

• Emission Reduction: Taking urgent global steps to curb carbon emissions and phase out fossil fuels (CO2, NOx, SOx).

• Pollution Control: Banning non-biodegradable plastics and reducing runoff into marine environments.

• Restoration: Deploying artificial reefs to stabilize degrading coastal ecosystems and prevent island erosion.

Conclusion

UNESCO warns that if global warming continues unabated, coral reefs across all 29 World Heritage reef sites could disappear by the end of this century. Fulfilling commitments under the Paris Agreement and SDG 13 (Climate Action) is imperative to save these vital marine habitats.