Seas the Day!
Conchervation Snapshot
Is the Great Barrier Reef making a comeback?
In 2022, the Australian Institute of Marine Science reported a significant increase in coral cover across two-thirds of the Great Barrier Reef after years of damage caused by factors like marine heatwaves, pollution, and coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish. While this might seem like a victory, scientists remain cautious. The recovery primarily involves fast-growing corals that are vulnerable to cyclones and starfish predation. The reef's overall health is a subject of debate among scientists, who consider various indicators, from coral cover to stress hormones. Efforts are underway to establish baselines for "healthy" reefs, given the reef's enormous size. Despite recent recovery, the Great Barrier Reef still faces significant threats from climate change and human activities, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.