Rising Temperatures Threaten Croatia's Largest Coral Reef

Threats to Croatia's Largest Coral Reef

• 🌊 Located in Croatia's Mljet National Park, the largest known Mediterranean sod coral reef spans nearly 7,000 square ft and supports diverse marine life.
• 🌡️ Rising sea temperatures are a significant threat, leading to prolonged periods of high heat.

Data Collection and Observed Trends

• 📊 Marine biologist Petar Kruzik has been collecting data for over three decades, installing data loggers to measure sea temperature hourly.
• 📈 Data shows a sharp increase in prolonged warm temperatures, with the reef experiencing up to a month and a half of high temperatures (84° F), compared to only 2-3 days in the early 2000s.

Impact of Invasive Species and Heat

• 🦠 Warm waters have attracted invasive species like Cladophora algae, which can overgrow and suffocate coral colonies.
• 💀 Consistent high temperatures also cause coral bleaching and tissue necrosis, further damaging the reef's health.