Why Are Lakshadweep Coral Reefs Undergoing Severe Bleaching?

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Introduction:

The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has recently revealed alarming findings regarding coral bleaching in the Lakshadweep Sea. This phenomenon, driven by prolonged marine heatwaves, poses a significant threat to the diverse marine ecosystems of the region.

Corals are sessile animals with stony skeletons that form the basis of coral reefs.
Lakshadweep’s islands are predominantly coral atolls, showcasing the importance of coral reefs to the region’s ecosystem.
Corals create intricate ecosystems, often referred to as “rainforests of the sea,” supporting a myriad of marine species.

Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel symbiotic algae due to warm water temperatures.
Without algae, corals lose their color and are at risk of starvation and disease.
The current bleaching event in Lakshadweep has been attributed to prolonged marine heatwaves since October 2023.

Corals experience thermal stress when sea surface temperatures exceed 1 degree Celsius above the maximum mean temperature.
The Degree Heating Week (DHW) indicator is used to measure accumulated heat stress, with values above 4 degrees Celsius-weeks causing significant coral bleaching.
Lakshadweep Sea has been experiencing temperatures 1 degree Celsius above the norm since October 27, 2023, leading to unprecedented bleaching.

Marine heatwaves are not isolated to Lakshadweep; they are increasingly prevalent in the Indian Ocean, posing threats to marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
A 2022 study by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) reported a significant increase in marine heatwaves, attributing it to rapid warming in the Indian Ocean and strong El Niños.
The impacts extend beyond corals to include seagrass meadows, kelp forests, and marine habitats critical for coastal communities and fisheries.

Coral bleaching, driven by marine heatwaves, poses a severe threat to Lakshadweep’s marine ecosystems.
Increased temperatures in the Lakshadweep Sea have surpassed thresholds for significant coral bleaching, endangering the region’s biodiversity and livelihoods.
Regional and global trends indicate a concerning rise in marine heatwaves, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation and climate action.

What causes coral bleaching?
- Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel symbiotic algae due to warm water temperatures, leading to stress and potential mortality.
How does coral bleaching impact marine ecosystems?
- Coral bleaching threatens biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal communities dependent on healthy marine ecosystems for livelihoods and sustenance.
What can be done to mitigate coral bleaching?
- Conservation efforts, including reducing carbon emissions and protecting marine habitats, are crucial for mitigating coral bleaching and preserving marine biodiversity.
Are marine heatwaves a global phenomenon?
- Yes, marine heatwaves are increasingly prevalent globally, with the Indian Ocean experiencing a significant rise in frequency and intensity in recent years.