Coral reefs in the Anthropocene.
Terry P Hughes1, Michele L Barnes1, David R Bellwood1
1Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies James Cook University Townsville 4811 Queensland Australia.
Nature
|June 2, 2017
Summary
Coral reefs face unprecedented threats from climate change, necessitating new strategies. We must adapt management and governance to maintain reef functions in the Anthropocene.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology and ecology
- Climate change science
- Conservation science
Background:
- Coral reefs are vital ecosystems supporting biodiversity and providing essential ecosystem services.
- Reefs are experiencing rapid degradation due to anthropogenic pressures.
- Climate change, particularly rising sea temperatures, poses a significant future threat to coral reefs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the challenge of coral reef degradation in the Anthropocene.
- To explore the implications of climate change on future coral reef configurations.
- To propose a new framework for managing and governing coral reefs.
Main Methods:
- This study is a synthesis and conceptual analysis.
- It integrates current understanding of climate change impacts on coral reefs.
- It draws on principles of ecosystem management and governance.
Main Results:
- Past configurations of coral reefs are unlikely to be recoverable.
- Rising temperatures will lead to novel reef states.
- Maintaining biological functions is the primary goal for future reefs.
Conclusions:
- Steering coral reefs through the Anthropocene requires a paradigm shift.
- Radical changes in scientific approaches, management practices, and governance structures are essential.
- Proactive adaptation and transformation are key to ensuring the persistence of coral reef functions.
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