Large‐scale bleaching of corals on the Great Barrier Reef

The 2015–2016 coral bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef was unprecedented in severity, with less than 9% of reefs unaffected compared to over 40% in previous mass bleaching events (1998 and 2002). Bleaching severity correlated strongly with local heat exposure, while factors like fishing restrictions or nutrient levels had minimal impact. Post-bleaching mortality and shifts in species composition were directly linked to initial bleaching scores, indicating lasting ecological consequences. Aerial surveys provided a comprehensive dataset, establishing a baseline for future comparisons. The study highlights the increasing vulnerability of coral reefs to climate change.

Hughes, T. P., Kerry, J. T., & Simpson, T. (2017). Large‐scale bleaching of corals on the Great Barrier Reef. Ecology, 99(2), 501. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecy.2092