Thailand’s coral reefs face grim future due to climate change

Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a veteran marine biologist with almost four decades of experience, is deeply troubled by the disturbing changes occurring in Thailand’s coral reefs He has voiced his shock and dismay at the unusual and alarming characteristics now displayed by the reefs, describing the current conditions as the most severe he has witnessed.

Thon, a professor in the Department of Marine Science at Kasetsart University, took to Facebook to share these observations. He described a time when the coral reefs teemed with vibrant life, providing shelter for a diverse array of marine creatures.

Unfortunately, the past five to six years have brought about drastic changes due to the escalating effects of global warming. Rising sea temperatures have resulted in abnormally low tides, intense sunlight, and, consequently, widespread coral bleaching.

Despite the corals’ resilience and attempts to recover, the relentless heat and solar exposure have led to the death of many, with only the sides of the coral structures managing to cling to life. Under normal circumstances, the corals could potentially recover over seven to eight years but the current environmental conditions have not been kind.

The frequency and intensity of warm water events have weakened the corals, leading to a steady decline and loss of habitat.

Thon’s posts include poignant images that serve as a stark reminder of the severity of the situation. He noted that juvenile corals, which had been establishing themselves upon the remnants of older generations, now face an uncertain future as another bout of searing heat has bleached whatever little remained. Without a reduction in water temperatures, the outlook for these corals, and the marine life they support, appears grim.

Ecosystem impact

The crisis is not limited to a handful of reefs but extends across thousands, signalling the potential end of a multimillion-year-old ecosystem known for its beauty and biodiversity. Thon warned that unless the water temperature decreases, the marine life in Thai waters could face total extinction.

In a call to action, he urged everyone to do their part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to adopt environmentally friendly practices, such as reducing waste, refraining from consuming endangered species, and supporting sustainable businesses, to help combat this marine catastrophe.

The public reaction to this news has been a mix of dismay and determination. Netizens have expressed their sorrow at the sight of the dying coral reefs and the broader implications of climate change. Some feel overwhelmed by the scale of the problem, while others are committed to continuing their efforts to protect the seas, no matter how challenging it may be.

Thon’s message is clear: the time for action is now. The world must come together to address climate change and protect the oceans before it’s too late. The fate of Thailand’s coral reefs hangs in the balance, and the window of opportunity to save them is rapidly closing, reported Khaosod.