Corals may be adapting to rising ocean temperatures
A new study suggests that some coral species are showing signs of adaptation to warmer waters caused by climate change. Researchers observed corals in Hawaii surviving higher temperatures than expected. This finding offers a glimmer of hope amid widespread coral bleaching events.
Scientists at the University of Hawaii have published research indicating that certain coral species might be evolving to cope with climate change. The study, detailed in the journal 'Global Change Biology,' examined corals in Hawaiian waters over several years. Lead researcher Dr. Iliana Baums stated, 'We found that corals exposed to higher temperatures in previous years were more resilient in subsequent heatwaves.'
The research focused on the coral species Porites lobata, common in the Pacific. Data collected from 2014 to 2022 showed that these corals endured water temperatures up to 2°C above their historical norms without mass die-off. 'This adaptation could be driven by genetic changes or microbial symbionts adjusting to new conditions,' Baums explained in the article.
Background context reveals that coral reefs worldwide face severe threats from ocean warming, acidification, and pollution. The Great Barrier Reef, for instance, has experienced multiple bleaching events since 2016, with up to 50% coral loss in some areas. However, the Hawaiian findings suggest localized adaptation might occur faster than previously thought.
Experts caution that while promising, this does not negate the need for global emissions reductions. Marine biologist Dr. Julia Stewart from the Smithsonian Institution commented, 'Adaptation in isolated populations is encouraging, but reefs need cooler oceans to thrive long-term.' The study implies that protecting existing coral diversity could enhance natural resilience.
No specific timeline for broader adaptation was provided, but researchers plan follow-up monitoring. This event highlights ongoing efforts to understand coral responses to environmental stress.