Great Barrier Reef's Decline Threatens Queensland's Coastline and Marine Life

The recovery of corals on the Great Barrier Reef has stalled due to bleaching, disease, and attacks by starfish, according to government scientists. Annual surveys of over 100 individual reefs showed a small decline in coral cover in the northern and central parts of the reef over the past year. The reef, the world's largest coral reef system, faces an uncertain future as the ocean continues to accumulate heat from fossil fuel burning, leading to mass coral bleaching events. The report highlights the impact of the 2022 bleaching event, the fourth in seven years, on coral loss and reduced growth and reproduction. Experts warn that another mass bleaching event, as well as crown-of-thorns starfish and coral disease, pose ongoing risks to the reef's recovery.