Source: Liv Williamson/University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science via AP.
Florida Keys coral reefs are experiencing an alarming loss of color weeks earlier than usual this summer, indicating they are under severe stress and facing potential endangerment, according to federal scientists. The vibrant and colorful corals should be seen during this time of year, but instead, they are turning white rapidly. The cause of the bleaching is still unclear, but officials suspect that high water temperatures, reaching about 91 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius), are responsible. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) raised its coral bleaching warning system to Alert Level 2, the highest heat stress level, for the Keys. Coral reefs, which are crucial ecosystems, are suffering globally due to climate change and other factors. Efforts are underway to rebuild Florida's coral reefs and enhance their heat resistance, but the early bleaching highlights the urgency of addressing climate change to protect these vital marine ecosystems.
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