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It's like seeing a friend who is in hospice when we see this Elkhorn Coral dying right in front of us. The summer of 2023 has brought a record-breaking marine heatwave to Florida's waters, putting an iconic species of coral on the brink of extinction. Elkhorn coral, a vital building block of marine life in the region, has faced a relentless assault from rising ocean temperatures. Fortunately, despite the devastating blow this summer, some scientists are determined to find signs of hope amidst the crisis from their unwavering efforts to save the corals.
Elkhorn Coral in Big Trouble
Elkhorn coral populations in Florida were already struggling for survival before this year's extreme heatwave. There were already so few elkhorn coral individuals on Florida's reefs that various genetic rescue plans were underway, but now almost all the corals we would have been used for such efforts have died. Elkhorn and staghorn coral are among the few branching corals found in the Caribbean and were the first coral species to gain protected status under the Endangered Species Act. Their branching structures are crucial, as they grow rapidly and provide shelter for marine life, enhancing the overall ecosystem.
The Toll of Rising Temperatures and The Reality of Climate Change in Florida
While elkhorn and staghorn corals are somewhat more heat-tolerant than other species, they are still vulnerable to coral bleaching. This summer, ocean temperatures in Florida and the Caribbean soared to as much as 3 degrees Celsius above normal, causing mass bleaching and a significant die-off, including corals bred to withstand higher temperatures. As our world continues to warm due to human-induced climate change, marine heatwaves are becoming more frequent, extreme, and very damaging.
It's a Real Race Against Time
Elkhorn and staghorn corals, once abundant, have become rare sights on Florida's reefs. A 2020 study revealed that the elkhorn coral population in the upper Florida Keys was "functionally extinct," unable to reproduce effectively. It's a dire situation, with too few individuals left to make a meaningful ecological impact. Staghorn coral may have fared slightly better this summer, but it still faces significant long-term challenges.
Some Signs of Hope
Despite the grim circumstances, there are signs of hope on the horizon. Florida's reefs are beginning to recover now that ocean temperatures have decreased from the scorching highs of summer. While scientists are aware of the mass bleaching event, they are still uncertain about the long-term consequences. Bleached coral may recover now that water temperatures are cooler, but they could also become more vulnerable to disease in the coming months.
The prospects for coral recovery lie in a human rescue efforts this summer. Scientists and other conservationists have moved corals to deeper, cooler waters and harvested diverse genetic specimens to create a "living gene bank" on land. These specimens will be used for future coral planting efforts. These scientists and conservationists have dedicated their lives to protecting these vital ecosystems. While the battle is far from won, their determination remains unshaken.
Wrapping It Up
The story of Florida's coral reefs is one of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering dedication. Despite the immense challenges posed by climate change and extreme heatwaves, scientists and conservationists continue to fight for the survival of these vital ecosystems. While the battle is far from over, the signs of hope shine through, serving as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving our natural world in the face of a changing climate. We all have to understand the impact these changes have on the sea and the life in it we love. More to follow in future blogs as we become more involved and help do our part to protect the seas we love, and more importantly, we need to live.