Using selective breeding and assisted evolution techniques, scientists have created coral strains that can withstand significantly warmer waters. The breakthrough offers hope for preserving coral reef ecosystems as climate change heats the oceans.
"These corals maintain their health and symbiotic relationships even at temperatures that would bleach normal corals," explained the marine biologist leading the project.
“The breakthrough offers hope for preserving coral reef ecosystems as climate change heats the oceans.”
Field trials are underway in the Great Barrier Reef and Caribbean, where heat-resistant corals are being planted alongside natural populations to help reefs adapt to changing conditions.
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