Is Ningaloo Reef dying?

Is Ningaloo Reef dying?

Ningaloo Reef could be wiped in 30 years, warns Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. WA’s Ningaloo Reef could be wiped out within three decades unless fossil fuels are phased out and the world changes dramatically to deal with a warming planet, according to a landmark report.

How has ningaloo changed over time?

Temperatures. The long-term average surface water temperature of the Great Barrier Reef has increased by about 0.5 oC since the 19th century. Significant coral bleaching was also observed in early 2011, due to thermal stress, on Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia.

Is the Ningaloo Reef endangered?

Compared to other reefs, Ningaloo is still in good condition. Its ecological integrity will be crucial in the face of predicted threats from increased ocean acidity, rises in sea surface temperature and more intense storm activity.

Is there coral bleaching in the Ningaloo Reef?

“Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site, escaped bleaching, but had some temperature-unrelated coral mortality. Temperate corals at Bremer Bay (Southwest) experienced no bleaching.” Dr Schoepf said bleaching patterns were consistent with patterns of heat stress across WA.

Why is Ningaloo special?

Ningaloo Reef – Top Ten Interesting Facts The Reef is also home to 250 different species of coral, representing over 50% of the Indian Ocean’s entire coral life. Every year, hundreds of whale sharks, the world’s largest known fish, make their way to the peaceful waters of Ningaloo in their quest for food.

Is Ningaloo Reef affected by climate change?

Climate change is one of the key threats facing coral reefs around the world, and the impacts of coral bleaching, ocean acidification and changing environmental conditions are predicted to affect Ningaloo in coming years too.

What makes ningaloo special?

Ningaloo Reef is one of only two coral reefs in the world that have formed on the western side of a continent! The water temperature at Ningaloo Reef is a balmy 22°C – 26 °C depending on the season, meaning you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling and scuba adventures in temperate conditions all year round!