Coral Reef Crisis: 90% of World Coral Could Disappear by 2050

Coral reefs support 25% of all marine species despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. They provide food, income, and coastal protection for 500M+ people. But coral reefs are dying at unprecedented rates due to ocean warming, acidification, and pollution. The Great Barrier Reef has experienced 6 mass bleaching events since 2016. Global coral cover has declined 50% since 1950. At current warming rates, 90% of coral could disappear by 2050. Coral restoration efforts (growing and transplanting coral fragments) show promise but cannot keep pace with warming. Reducing emissions remains the only long-term solution.