A team of researchers from the University of California, Santa Barbara has found that corals struggle to grow under multiple stressors. The researchers studied the growth of the coral species Porites astreoides under different combinations of ocean acidification, sea temperature increase, and nutrient enrichment. They found that corals grew the slowest under conditions of multiple stressors.
The researchers say that their findings have implications for the future of coral reefs. As ocean conditions continue to change, corals will be increasingly stressed and less able to grow and reproduce. This could lead to the decline of coral reefs and the loss of the important ecosystem services they provide.
The study was published in the journal Nature Communications.
Lead author Dr. Anne Cohen said: "Our study shows that corals are struggling to cope with multiple stressors. This is a major concern for the future of coral reefs, as they are facing a number of threats from human activities."
Co-author Dr. Chris Langdon said: "Our findings suggest that coral reefs may be more vulnerable to climate change than previously thought. As ocean conditions continue to change, corals will be increasingly stressed and less able to survive."
The researchers believe that their findings underscore the importance of taking action to reduce the stressors that are harming coral reefs. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving water quality, and protecting marine habitats.
