Dutch Island Coral Reef Threatened by Disease and Heat

Bonaire, often hailed as the healthiest coral reef in the Caribbean, has long been a beacon of hope in the fight against biodiversity loss and climate change. Environmental correspondent Benji Jones recently visited the island to explore how its coral reefs have managed to recover from past bleaching events and storms, a feat not commonly seen in the broader Caribbean. This visit marks the beginning of a series focused on the future of coral reefs as they confront escalating threats. Despite its reputation, recent observations indicate a troubling decline in coral health. Local divers, like Francisca from nearby Curacao, have noted a significant reduction in coral abundance over the past year. This raises concerns about the overall resilience of Bonaire's reefs, which, despite being among the best protected globally, are now showing signs of distress. The situation is particularly alarming given that if Bonaire's reefs are struggling, the outlook for other Caribbean reefs appears grim. However, the presence of parrotfish in Bonaire remains a positive sign. Local dive instructor Ebby Jules attributes the reef's relative health to over 60 years of conservation efforts. He emphasizes that, despite the ongoing threats of disease and climate change, Bonaire's reefs are faring better than many others worldwide due to these protective measures. As the series unfolds, it will delve deeper into the complexities of coral reef conservation and the urgent need for continued protection in the face of climate change.