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Record Sea Temperatures Trigger Coral Bleaching Crisis in Thailand’s Eastern Gulf
Aquatic life from coral reefs to fish along Thailand’s eastern gulf coast is suffering as sea surface temperatures hit record highs this month amid a regional heatwave, worrying scientists and local communities.
The once vibrant and colourful corals, about five metres (16 feet) underwater, have turned white in a phenomenon known as coral bleaching, a sign that their health is deteriorating due to higher water temperatures, scientists say.
Sea surface temperatures in the Eastern Gulf of Thailand reached 32.73°C (90.91°F) earlier this month, while underwater readings are slightly warmer, with dive computers showing around 33°C, data shows.
“I couldn’t find a single healthy coral,” said marine biologist Lalita Putchim of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) after completing a dive in the gulf coast.
The unprecedented rise in sea temperatures has triggered widespread coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white and, if prolonged, leading to coral death. This has significant implications for marine biodiversity, as coral reefs provide habitat and food for a wide range of marine species.
Local communities and scientists are deeply concerned about the long-term impact of this heatwave on the region’s marine ecosystem. The health of coral reefs is vital not only for marine life but also for the local economy, which relies heavily on tourism and fishing.
Efforts are now focused on monitoring the situation and developing strategies to mitigate the damage. Immediate actions include raising awareness among local communities and tourists about the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices to reduce further stress on the reefs.
The coral bleaching crisis in Thailand’s Eastern Gulf serves as a stark reminder of the broader impacts of climate change on marine environments and underscores the urgent need for global action to address rising sea temperatures.
