beach-view

Conservation

Bleach Watch Egypt Sep. 2024

his research examines coral bleaching in the Egyptian Red Sea, driven by climate change. Led by Prof. Mahmoud H. Hanafy and Dr. Mohamed Salem, the study highlights the impact of rising sea temperatures on coral ecosystems. It explores the resilience of Egyptian corals compared to global counterparts, the geographical extent of bleaching, recovery rates, and the ecological and economic importance of coral reefs in the Red Sea.

The research, conducted by Prof. Mahmoud H. Hanafy and Dr. Mohamed Salem, focuses on coral bleaching in the Egyptian Red Sea due to climate change. It details how rising sea temperatures cause algae vital to coral health to leave, leading to coral bleaching and death. The study reveals that global coral ecosystems, including Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, are severely affected. Egyptian reefs, though, have shown greater resilience due to unique water currents and wind patterns in the Red Sea, which help regulate surface temperatures. The first bleaching event in Egypt was recorded in 2012, with subsequent occurrences in 2020, 2023, and 2024. The research shows that recovery rates of bleached corals in Egypt are the highest globally, ranging from 70-85%. The report emphasizes the ecological and economic significance of coral reefs, which support marine biodiversity and industries like tourism and fishing. It also highlights the urgency of conservation efforts and suggests actions like expanding protected areas and regulating fishing to ensure the survival of these vital ecosystems amidst climate change pressures.
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    Report of Bleach Watch Egypt Sep. 2024

    This research examines coral bleaching in the Egyptian Red Sea, driven by climate change. Led by Prof. Mahmoud H. Hanafy and Dr. Mohamed Salem, the study highlights the impact of rising sea temperatures on coral ecosystems. It explores the resilience of Egyptian corals compared to global counterparts, the geographical extent of bleaching, recovery rates, and the ecological and economic importance