Due to global warming, coral reefs from Florida are decaying being severely affected by warm temperatures. All the coral reefs in the world represent the home of more than 25% of all marine animals which live in the oceans. Unfortunately, these reefs are now in danger of extinction because their number declines at a global level. In Florida, this effect of climate change is even more persistent.
- The Florida Reef Tract is threatened by extinction due to global warming.
- Scientists are collecting many species of coral for studying, reproducing and then planting.
- Many associations are working together to preserve these amazing creatures.
Scientists claim that the Florida Reef Tract which measures about 150 miles, starting from Key Biscayne through the Florida Keys, is currently in great danger. This national treasure is threatened by extinction due to the greenhouse gas effect. If this disappears, that means that we also lose about 1,400 species of marine animals and plants which use the coral reef as their habitat.
Losing one of the most beautiful creatures in the world would be catastrophic not only for us but for many other species which depend on it. The Florida Reef Tract consists of approximately 40 species of coral. What is more, this coral reef supports significant industries for Florida, like tourism and fishing. On the other hand, this also represents a perfect barrier which combats all storm damages.
Pillar coral is one of the species which is rapidly decreasing, dying at a greater rate compared to other species of coral. Thus, scientists started collecting coral species, studying them and struggling to find a solution so that they will not reach on the verge of extinction. Researchers decided to gather healthy pillar corals and send them to Florida’s facility at the Conservation Center at Apollo Beach. This species is assigned there for reproducing, analyzing and then restoring the species to reefs.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and NOAA teamed up to help at the conservation of coral reefs. Other groups of scientists at the University of Florida, the Coral Restoration Foundation and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums organizations have united to fulfill their common goal of preserving coral DNA, planting coral, reproducing them and informing the whole community about this amazing creature. Every resident in Florida should be aware of the importance of coral reefs.
The National Aquarium of Cuba is working on delimiting geopolitical boundaries. Their scientists will collaborate during the staghorn coral spawn at the CRF coral nursery.
Image courtesy of: flickr
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