CBS News reports 100% coral mortality found in coral reef restoration site off Florida as ocean temperatures soar

The CBS News article discusses the dire state of coral reefs off the coast of Florida due to rising ocean temperatures and the impacts of extreme heat. The Coral Restoration Foundation reports that coral mortality reached 100% at one restoration site off Florida's coast due to the unprecedented temperatures. Even at other sites, significant coral loss has been observed. The article explains that when ocean temperatures rise, corals expel the algae living within their tissues, leading to coral bleaching, a phenomenon that weakens and stresses the corals, making them more susceptible to future bleaching events.

The report highlights the critical role of coral reefs in the health of the planet and particularly in Florida's ecosystem. Sombrero Reef, a protected area with endangered star corals, has been significantly affected. Ocean temperatures in the Florida Keys have been abnormally high, with some areas experiencing temperatures well above the usual monthly averages. NOAA raised its coral bleaching warning level to Alert Level 2 for the Florida Keys, indicating prolonged high water temperatures.

The impact of climate change on coral reefs is emphasized, with the Coral Restoration Foundation calling for urgent and collective efforts to combat climate change. The economic and ecological importance of Florida's coral reef system is underlined, as it supports jobs, tourism, and provides natural protection against storms. The article quotes experts and officials stressing the need for global cooperation to address the climate crisis, as its effects are far-reaching and affect all forms of life on Earth.