According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science, parts of the Great Barrier Reef have recorded their highest amount of coral cover in over 36 years. The report was published on Thursday. An AIMS survey of 87 reefs discovered that between August 2021 and May 2022, average hard coral cover in the upper region and central areas of the reef increased by one third.
The is really good news for the world-famous reef, as in March it underwent its sixth mass bleaching event. CEO at AIMS, Dr. Paul Hardisty said the reef is showing signs that it can still recover from mass bleaching and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish that feed on coral.
There is sill significant loss of coral cover elsewhere which suggests the reed is still vulnerable to threats. The report explained that with climate change, disturbances that could negatively impact the progress in coral growth will happen more frequently and be longer-lasting.
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