The largest coral system in the world and Australia's Great Barrier Reef, is currently facing another mass bleaching due to escalating temperatures.
In the last eight years it is the fifth extensive bleaching event observed by the UNESCO World Heritage site. Until 2016 there were only two events of mass bleaching.
When in intense temperatures, a coral reef spouts algae that gives them life and colour, bleaching occurs.
The current aerial survey unveils that most of the reefs are going through widespread bleaching due to the extreme sea temperature.
To determine the intensity of the damage, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is also presently conducting in-water inspection.
As a result of unparalleled sea temperatures, the northern hemisphere and the southernmost reef at Lord Howe Island are also suffering from coral degradation.
The Great Barrier Reef, which is acknowledged as the heritage because of its significance and for its biodiversity, is now in 'serious threat' according to UNESCO.
Scientists have requested for ‘immediate climate action’ for the survival of the reefs.
