Florida's Elkhorn and Staghorn Coral Functionally Extinct Due to 2023 Heat Wave

Strategic Insights -

Research published in the journal Science reveals that two of Florida's most historically important coral species, elkhorn and staghorn, are now functionally extinct around the state. Following a record-breaking marine heat wave in 2023, these corals no longer play a significant role in their ecosystem, according to the study's authors. The findings are a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change on coral reefs, which support an estimated quarter of marine species.

Key Takeaways:

  • Elkhorn and staghorn coral, once the dominant reef builders on Florida's reefs for the last 10,000 years, are now functionally extinct due to a 2023 marine heat wave.
  • The heat wave caused record-breaking temperatures, resulting in heat stress that was two to four times greater than any year on record.
  • The incidence of elkhorn and staghorn coral had declined by 90 percent or more on Florida's coral reef before 2023, said Ross Cunning, a coral biologist at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.
  • The remaining corals are so diminished that they are not able to contribute to the ecosystem in a meaningful way, the study's authors stated.
  • Other coral species, such as brain and boulder coral, seem to have recovered relatively well from the 2023 heat wave, according to early results.
  • Coral restoration efforts, including transplanting hybrid "Flonduran corals" onto the Florida reef, are underway to help the species withstand higher temperatures.
  • However, scientists emphasized that even if such interventions succeed, they alone will not be enough to save reefs if climate change continues unchecked.

Statistics:

  • 98-100% of elkhorn and staghorn coral died in the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas due to the 2023 heat wave.
  • 38% of elkhorn and staghorn died off southeast Florida, where water temperatures were not as high.
  • 47 authors contributed to the study published in the journal Science.
  • 52,000 colonies of staghorn and elkhorn coral were surveyed across 391 sites.
  • Reefs support an estimated quarter of marine species, including fish that provide crucial protein and income in coastal communities.
  • Coral reefs protect coasts from storms and are sensitive to changes in temperature, with limited ability to migrate.

Sources:

  • "Functional extinction of elkhorn (E. elatius) and staghorn (A. cervicornis) coral from Florida reefs following a record-breaking 2023 heat wave" published in the journal Science
  • The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago
  • The University of Miami
  • The International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List
  • The New York Times