Extreme Heat Adaptation in Corals
Author Information
Author(s): Riegl Bernhard M., Purkis Sam J., Al-Cibahy Ashraf S., Abdel-Moati Mohammed A., Hoegh-Guldberg Ove
Primary Institution: National Coral Reef Institute, Nova Southeastern University
Hypothesis
Can Gulf corals survive extreme heat conditions and what implications does this have for coral populations in a warming climate?
Conclusion
Gulf corals can withstand extreme heat better than other corals, but they are still at risk from climate change and local threats.
Supporting Evidence
- Gulf corals experienced severe bleaching in 2010 due to extreme temperatures.
- Corals in the Gulf can survive temperatures that would kill most other corals.
- Population models suggest Gulf corals could dominate tropical reefs within 20 years if moved.
Takeaway
Some corals in the Arabian Gulf can survive really hot water better than most other corals, but they still face big dangers from climate change.
Methodology
The study analyzed temperature data and coral bleaching events in the Arabian/Persian Gulf, using models to predict population dynamics under climate change scenarios.
Limitations
The study is limited by the short duration of temperature records and the complexity of local environmental factors affecting coral health.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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