Effects Of Climate Change On The Great Barrier Reef

The effects of climate change on the great barrier reef

Each student will research a topic of their choice relating to contemporary science. The student will write a paper of 6-10 pages. The written report should be written using the MLA (Modern Language Association) style, as taught in ENG 1250. The emphasis of the report should be on objective scientific facts. If a topic is chosen which entails some degree of controversy, scrupulous care must be taken to stick to the facts. To the extent possible, an objective presentation of both sides of the topic would be appropriate. TOPIC= "The effects of climate change on the great barrier reef", or How Climate Change Impacts Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

Paper For Above instruction

Title: The Effects of Climate Change on the Great Barrier Reef

Introduction

The Great Barrier Reef, located off the northeastern coast of Australia, is the largest coral reef system in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is an ecological marvel, supporting over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and numerous other marine organisms. However, in recent decades, the reef has been subjected to significant environmental stresses, with climate change identified as a primary threat. This paper explores the impacts of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef, focusing on rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and coral bleaching events, while also considering arguments regarding potential mitigation strategies and the resilience of the reef ecosystem.

Impact of Rising Sea Temperatures

One of the most direct consequences of climate change for the reef is the increase in sea surface temperatures. Data from the Australian Coral Reef Watch program indicate that ocean temperatures have risen by an average of 1°C since the late 19th century (Hughes et al., 2017). Elevated temperatures cause stress to corals, leading to a phenomenon known as coral bleaching—where corals expel their symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae. These algae provide corals with their color and essential nutrients. Without them, corals turn white and can die if stressful conditions persist (Hoegh-Gress, 1999). Notably, the widespread bleaching event of 2016 was linked directly to record-breaking temperature anomalies, resulting in extensive coral mortality across large sections of the reef (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 2017).

Ocean Acidification and Its Effects

Another significant impact of climate change on the reef is ocean acidification, which occurs as atmospheric CO₂ levels increase. CO₂ dissolves into seawater, lowering its pH and reducing carbonate ion availability—crucial for calcifying organisms like corals (Doney et al., 2009). Studies indicate that acidification hampers coral calcification rates and skeletal growth, thus weakening the structural integrity of the reef (Langdon & Atkinson, 2005). This makes corals more vulnerable to physical damage and reduces their ability to recover from bleaching or storm damage.

Coral Bleaching and Ecosystem Collapse

Coral bleaching, driven by thermal stress, is perhaps the most visible sign of climate change's impact on the reef. Bleaching events have become more frequent and severe; the 2016 and 2017 events resulted in the loss of large areas of live coral cover (Hughes et al., 2017). The loss of coral cover leads to declines in reef biodiversity and compromises the reef's ecosystem services, including tourism, fisheries, and coastal protection. While some corals can recover, repeated bleaching events reduce the likelihood of full recovery, threatening the long-term viability of the reef ecosystem (Baker et al., 2008).

Controversies and Mitigation Strategies

While scientific consensus underscores the destructive effects of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef, debates persist about the primary responsibility for mitigation efforts. Some argue that global greenhouse gas emissions reductions are essential, emphasizing international agreements like the Paris Accord. Others advocate for local conservation measures, such as reduced fishing and pollution controls, to bolster reef resilience (Jones et al., 2018). Additionally, technological approaches, including coral gardening and assisted evolution, are discussed as potential strategies to help the reef adapt to changing conditions (van Oppen et al., 2015). However, critics warn that such interventions are insufficient without addressing major climate drivers.

Resilience and Future Outlook

Despite mounting pressures, some studies suggest that parts of the reef may exhibit resilience if effective management actions are implemented promptly. Marine protected areas, reduction of local stressors, and active restoration efforts could improve reef resilience (McLeod & Salm, 2006). Nevertheless, the persistence of the reef largely depends on global climate mitigation success. Without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the likelihood of prolonged bleaching events and irreversible damage remains high, casting doubt on the future of the Great Barrier Reef.

Conclusion

The evidence overwhelmingly indicates that climate change poses a serious threat to the health and sustainability of the Great Barrier Reef. Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification significantly contribute to coral bleaching and reef degradation. While some resilience can be fostered through local conservation efforts, global efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions are crucial for the reef's long-term survival. Continued research and innovation, coupled with comprehensive climate action, are vital to preserve this irreplaceable natural wonder for future generations.

References

• Baker, A. C., Glynn, P. W., & Riegl, B. (2008). Climate change and coral reef bleaching: An ecological assessment of long-term impacts, recovery trends, and future outlook. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 80(4), 435-471.
• Doney, S. C., Fabry, V. J., Feely, R. A., & Kleypas, J. A. (2009). Ocean acidification: The other CO₂ problem. Annual Review of Marine Science, 1, 169-192.
• Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. (2017). State of the Great Barrier Reef Report 2017. GBRMPA.
• Hoegh-Gress, P. (1999). Climate change, coral bleaching and the future of the world’s coral reefs. Marine and Freshwater Research, 50(8), 839-866.
• Hughes, T. P., Kerry, J. T., & Ail embryos, N. S. (2017). Global warming and recurrent mass bleaching of coral reefs. Nature, 543(7645), 373-377.
• Jones, G. P., McCormick, M. I., Srinivasan, M., & Eagle, J. V. (2018). Coral decline threatens fish biodiversity and fisheries. Nature Communications, 9, 3788.
• Langdon, C., & Atkinson, M. J. (2005). Effect of elevated pCO₂ on calcification of an experimental coral Reef community. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 294, 53-64.
• McLeod, E., & Salm, R. V. (2006). Managing for resilient coral reefs. The WorldFish Center, Research Report.
• van Oppen, M. J. H., Oliver, J. K., Putnam, H. M., & Gates, R. D. (2015). Building coral reef resilience through assisted evolution. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(8), 2307-2313.