The Great Barrier Reef has suffered its sharpest coral decline in nearly 40 years, with northern and southern regions hit hardest by the 2024 marine heatwave.

New data from the Australian Institute of Marine Science reveals widespread losses, though some areas in the central Reef remain resilient, highlighting the growing threats from climate change and extreme events.

Mike Emslie, a Senior Research Scientist in Reef Ecology at the Australian Institute of Marine Science, shares his insights from the latest survey, explains the causes behind these alarming declines, and discusses what actions are needed to protect this precious ecosystem.

If you would like to know more, you can read the full AIMS article here.