Maldives' Coral Reefs Reach Critical Bleaching Alert Level

The issue of coral bleaching in the Maldives' reefs has reached a point where it requires attention.

According to the Regional Bleaching Heat Stress Map, the Maldives is currently at "Alert Level-1" on the coral bleaching classification scale. It is also estimated that it will reach "Alert Level-2" within the next four weeks.

The Maldives Marine Research Institute stated on March 17 that coral bleaching has been observed in various regions of the Maldives. At that time, the Regional Bleaching Heat Stress Map showed the Maldives at the "Watch" level on the coral bleaching scale. It was estimated then that it would reach the warning level within a month, and "Alert Level 1" within two months. This estimation has now become a reality.

In March, the Maldives Marine Research Institute requested that if coral bleaching is noticed or any signs are seen while observing the Maldives' reefs, it should be reported to the coral database. At that time, they requested reports to be made via a Google form specially created by the center for this purpose, as well as through the agency's email and website. Since then, the center has not made any official statement regarding this matter. However, coral planters, divers, those active in fisheries, and individuals interested in and concerned about the coral bleaching issue have been circulating videos of the Maldives' reefs on social media. Watching these videos reveals the fragile state of the Maldives' reefs.

Looking at some of the posts circulating on social media today, the Save Maldives Campaign has stated that the Maldivian government and relevant authorities need to work on becoming familiar with scientific findings. Furthermore, the Save Maldives Campaign has called on the government to stop land reclamation by dredging sand from the oceans.

#Maldives @NOAACoral #coralbleaching outlook We are now on Alert Level 1The outlook looks mad and RED Are we bothered?@governmentmv @presidencymv @MoCImv must work on becoming science-literate! STOP THE DREDGING 🛑 pic.twitter.com/VpRHq3j1SO — #SaveMaldives Campaign (@SaveMaldivesMV) April 26, 2024

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

As coral reefs are reaching a fragile state due to global climate change and the warming of ocean waters, scientists at the international level are working to find a solution to this issue.