what happens after coral is bleached?
1 answer
After coral is bleached, it becomes more susceptible to disease, and their survival rate decreases. If the stress-causing event, such as high water temperature, persists, then the coral will eventually die. However, if the stress is removed, the coral may recover and regain its coloration by growing back microscopic algae. If the bleaching is severe and widespread, it can have long-term impacts on the ecosystem, as the coral provides a habitat for a diverse range of marine species.