Florida coral reef in danger
Original reporting by Seth O’Neil
The Florida reef is the only coral reef system in the continental U.S.
In the last few weeks, heat waves have almost completely destroyed two species of coral in these reefs. Staghorn and elkhorn corals have been left functionally extinct. This means the species is not entirely gone, but it’s no longer playing its role in the environment. These two species were a major part of the coral reefs in both Florida and the Caribbean.
These species have already suffered from other environmental factors like pollution and disease, but the recent heatwaves have caused them the most damage. Coral is extremely sensitive to temperature. Aidan McFarland, Ph.D, explains why this is the case.
“Especially because these are shallow waters corals can survive in… the temperature can change a lot more than deeper ocean water. So you can get these really large effects,” McFarland said.
Elkhorn coral used to play a large part in protecting the coastlines from flooding. As this coral is wiped out, USF’s John Parkinson, Ph.D, warns about the impacts it will have on our environment.
“Coastline protection, not just for humans, but you know there’s a whole lot of diversity in terms of organisms that live along the coast. And you have flooding and beach erosion. I mean think about the turtles right? They need beaches for nesting grounds,” Parkinson said.
While the situation in the Florida Reef has gotten dire, there are still ways that you can help out. Cleaning up litter and properly disposing of trash, as well as being responsible with boats and snorkeling equipment can all help protect our reefs. Most importantly, contacting local representatives about this issue can help change policy regarding reef protection.
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