A report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveals that nearly half of the species of reef-building corals living in tropical waters are in danger of extinction.
## Impact of Climate Change and Other Threats
The increase in temperatures caused by human activity has led to a massive bleaching of coral reefs, threatening crucial ecosystems for marine life and the livelihoods of dependent populations.
Corals are also threatened by pollution, diseases, and unsustainable fishing.
## Assessment and Updated Data
The IUCN continues to assess the risks for corals living in colder and deeper waters. According to the latest assessment, 892 species of reef-building corals in tropical waters are endangered.
## Recommendations and Call to Action
The organization urges negotiators at COP29 to act quickly to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Director General of IUCN, Grethel Aguilar, emphasized the importance of coral reef ecosystems for humanity.
## Results of the Atlantic Study
A study published in PLOS ONE concludes that nearly one in three species of reef-building corals in the Atlantic is in critical danger of extinction.
## Future of Coral Reefs
Without proper decisions by world leaders, the loss of reefs and the disappearance of coral species will significantly increase, warned David Obura, a coral specialist at the IUCN.
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