COASTAL RESEARCH Coral Reefs in Changing Climate

Coral reefs are one of the most productive and biodiverse marine ecosystems on earth which are currently facing imminent risk of collapse globally due to natural and anthropogenic stressors. One of the critical factors is the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. For example, elevated sea surface temperature (ESST) anomalies of 1998, 2010, and 2016 and consequent events have resulted in a drastic decline in coral reefs in several parts of India. However, the dynamics and mechanisms driving these changes and their effect on ecosystem functions are poorly understood.

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