coral health

Coral health reflects the well-being of coral reefs, which are vital marine ecosystems. Healthy corals have vibrant colors, clear tissue, and active growth, supported by a symbiotic relationship with tiny algae called zooxanthellae that provide nutrients through photosynthesis. Factors like water temperature, pollution, overfishing, and acidification can stress corals, causing bleaching—where they lose their color and resilience—and increasing disease risk. Maintaining coral health depends on protecting water quality, reducing CO₂ emissions, and managing human impacts to support their ability to grow, reproduce, and sustain the diverse marine life that depends on them.