Page 47 - Caribbean Reef Life Demo

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There has recently been a dramatic upsurge in the number of diseases that are threatening coral reefs throughout the Caribbean; over 30 have been identi ed so far. The cause varies with each disease but their spread has been linked to runoff from increased human development in coastal areas. This reduction in water uality appears to play a large role. An increase in nutrients only helps harmful algae grow more uickly, while at the same time inhibiting a coral’s natural defenses and immune system. The series below shows the spread of a coral disease in just over one month.