Coral bleaching begins in Maldivian reefs

The Maldives Marine Research Institute has stated that coral bleaching is being observed in various regions of the Maldives.

The institute revealed this and requested that if coral bleaching or any signs of it are noticed while observing the reefs of the Maldives, it should be reported to the Coral Database. They requested reporting via the Google form and website specially created by the center for this purpose.

According to the Regional Bleaching Heat Stress Map, the Maldives is currently at the "Watch" level in the coral bleaching categorization scale. It is estimated to reach the warning level within the next month, and Alert "Level 1" within two months. Furthermore, it is estimated to reach Alert "Level 2" within the next three months.

Coral bleaching commonly occurs in the Maldives around this time of the year. This happens due to the effects of climate change and global warming. Coral bleaching generally occurs when the tiny algae called zooxanthellae, which live in the coral tissue and give life to the coral, leave the coral. As a result, the coral turns white.

As coral reefs are becoming vulnerable due to global climate change and rising sea temperatures, scientists at the international level are working to find a solution to this issue.