Climate Change and Coral Reefs Ecosystems

Dear Colleagues,

Direct human pressure has contributed to widespread degradation of the coral reef ecosystem throughout the tropics. Concern over over-exploitation, physical destruction, pollution and coastal development has in the last two decades expanded to include the vulnerability of coral reefs to the various impacts of climate change. How will reef systems respond to sea level rise, sea surface temperature elevation, extreme weather variables and ocean acidification, and will the response differ between reefs that are already compromised by direct anthropogenic pressure and those that are not? Can the response of reefs to chronic or acute disturbances that simulate climate change impact scenarios provide some indication of resilience? Coral reefs have been affected by two major and extensive sea surface temperature events in 1998 and 2010 with varying impacts in different regions. The effect of lowered pH on coral calcification is gaining interest. Some coral species have shifted to the higher latitudes. Research on how coral reef distribution and community structure will change and how these will affect the livelihoods of coastal populations is important to guide our thinking on protection of the coral reef ecosystem against climate change. Contributions that address the biophysical as well as the socio-economic linkages between coral reefs and climate change are most welcome.

Kindest regards,

Prof. Loke Ming Chou
Guest Editor

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