Good news from the GBR: Current bleaching status
Current levels of coral bleaching across the entire Great Barrier Reef are still low. Reports of localised bleaching continue to be received for several reefs throughout the Great Barrier Reef region, and bleaching severity has increased to moderate levels at several sites. This patchy, localised bleaching continues to be consistent with the early stage of a widespread bleaching event but does not necessarily mean that more severe bleaching will follow.
Sea surface temperatures cooled over most of the Reef in January, most notably in the northern and central regions between Cooktown and the Whitsundays. Accumulated stress levels in some areas are just close to those known to cause coral bleaching, but current conditions are acting to reduce heat stress in most areas. Widespread bleaching remains possible if conditions change and heating resumes across the region. Areas that experience clear skies and calm weather in the latter half of February and early March will be especially at risk. The situation will continue to be monitored closely as the summer progresses.
Source: GBRMPA http://tinyurl.com/br45dg
