HRI Researchers Dive into Coral Bleaching Awareness Month in November
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Coral Bleaching Awareness Month in November offers an opportunity to learn more about and raise awareness of the threats coral reefs face around the world, including those in the Gulf.
Throughout the month, scientists and researchers from the Coral Reef and Ocean Health Lab at the Harte Research Institute (HRI) at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) will share their expertise through social media posts, feature videos, and more.
In October, HRI researchers returned from an expedition to the Florida Keys for Operation Coral Rescue 2.0, working with Reef Renewal USA to bring back corals for continued study and conservation efforts. The work is especially timely as Coral Bleaching Awareness Month highlights the growing threats reefs face from warming waters and the importance of ongoing research and restoration.
“Coral Bleaching Awareness Month is an important reminder of how closely connected coral reef health is to the overall health of our oceans,” said Dr. Keisha Bahr, HRI’s Chair for Coral Reef and Ocean Health. “As ocean temperatures rise, corals face increasing stress that can lead to bleaching and loss of biodiversity. By raising awareness, we can inspire action to reduce human impacts and protect these vital ecosystems that support marine life and coastal resilience.”
Corals are an essential part of the ocean as they help maintain healthy marine ecosystems, protect coastlines from erosion, and support livelihoods around the world. Bleaching occurs when corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white. Their color comes from microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within the coral. When ocean conditions change, such as when ocean waters become too warm, the coral becomes stressed and expels the algae, turning the coral white. Once corals die, they rarely recover, impacting reef ecosystems that wildlife and people depend on.
During the month, HRI researchers will discuss topics such as what coral bleaching is, why HRI’s work matters, how partnerships are key to success, and the future of reef conservation efforts. In addition, students and researchers in the program will offer frequent social media posts highlighting the work HRI’s Coral Reef and Ocean Health Lab is doing.
“Corals do so much more than add color to our oceans, they protect coastlines, support marine life, and provide livelihoods,” Bahr said. “Our team and students at HRI are using this month to help the public understand not only what coral bleaching is, but why keeping corals healthy is such an important part of ocean conservation.”
Follow HRI and the Coral Reef and Ocean Health Lab on social media throughout the month for more information during Coral Bleaching Awareness Month.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harteresearch/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harteresearch/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HarteResearch
Coral Reef and Ocean Health Lab Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crohlab/?hl=en