Researchers on Lord Howe Island were prepared for the inevitable. By snorkeling in reefs that were three to ten feet deep, they were able to collect baseline data in order to study the reefs prior to, during, and after bleaching events. The sea surface temperatures around Lord Howe Island typically average around 60.8 degrees Fahrenheit in winter, but rise to 78.8 degrees Fahrenheit in summer.
During Australia’s most recent summer, temperatures reached a record-breaking 84.2 degrees Fahrenheit. In late January, just before the summer temperatures spiked, the researchers found the reef to be pristine. The colors were vibrant and breathtaking, resembling what the Great Barrier Reef might have looked like decades ago. However, upon returning a month later, they were shocked to find that the reef had changed drastically. Bleaching was evident at every single site, leaving the researchers feeling like it was a completely different reef.
As some species of coral die off, they emit neon-like colors of pinks, purples, and greens, almost like a final plea for help. This phenomenon was observed by Paige Sawyers, a PhD student at the University of New South Wales who surveyed the corals. The striking change in the reef’s appearance serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change on these delicate ecosystems.
In conclusion, researchers on Lord Howe Island have been studying coral bleaching events for years now using snorkeling techniques and collecting baseline data before and after bleaching events occur. The rising sea surface temperatures during Australia’s recent summer reached a record high temperature of 84.2 degrees Fahrenheit which caused significant changes in coral bleaching patterns on Lord Howe Island’s coral reefs.
The findings from this research emphasize how important it is to monitor these delicate ecosystems and take action against climate change before further damage is done to our planet’s biodiversity and natural resources.
The striking change in color of corals serves as a reminder of how vital it is for us to understand more about climate change and its effects on marine life so we can take necessary steps towards conservation efforts before it’s too late.
