Nearly Half of Tropical Coral Species Threatened with Extinction

The IUCN's latest report reveals that 44% of warm-water coral species are at risk due to climate change and other environmental pressures.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) updated its Red List, highlighting a significant increase in threatened coral species since 2008.
Climate change, characterized by rising ocean temperatures and mass bleaching events, is identified as the primary threat to coral reefs globally.
Pollution, disease, unsustainable fishing, and agricultural runoff further exacerbate the risks facing coral ecosystems.
The report was released during the COP29 climate summit, emphasizing the urgent need for global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The study also notes that nearly one-third of Atlantic coral species are critically endangered, with staghorn and elkhorn corals notably affected.