Q4. Assess the impact of global warming on the coral life system with examples.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Global warming refers to the long-term rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases. Coral life systems, comprising coral reefs, are diverse underwater ecosystems held together by calcium carbonate structures secreted by corals. Recent data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates that 75% of the world's coral reefs experienced bleaching events between 2014 and 2017.

Body

  • Bleaching due to Increased Sea Temperatures: Elevated sea temperatures cause corals to expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues, leading to coral bleaching. For instance, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia has suffered significant bleaching events in 2016, 2017, and 2020, with over 50% of its coral cover affected.
  • Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 levels result in higher ocean acidity, which impairs the ability of corals to produce their calcium carbonate skeletons. This weakens the coral structures and hampers their growth. Studies show that the pH of ocean surface waters has decreased by 0.1 units since the industrial revolution, a 30% increase in acidity.
  • Extreme Weather Events: Global warming intensifies the frequency and severity of storms and cyclones, which physically damage coral reefs. For example, Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused extensive damage to coral reefs in the Caribbean.

Conclusion

Coral reefs play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by providing habitat and shelter for approximately 25% of all marine species.The global economic value of coral reefs is estimated at $375 billion per year. In regions like Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, coral reef tourism is a major source of income.Urgent global action is needed to mitigate climate change and protect these vital ecosystems.

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