44% Coral Species Face Extinction: IUCN Red List

November 15, 2024

The recent report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) shows that 44% of reef-building coral species are now at risk of extinction, up from 33% in 2008. These alarming findings were discussed at the 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Importance of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are important for marine biodiversity and support millions of livelihoods around the world. They provide food and income for about 500 million people and generate around $375 billion each year through tourism.

Threats to Coral Species

Climate change is the main threat to coral species, along with pollution, agricultural runoff, disease, and unsustainable fishing practices. The IUCN’s latest report shows that 44% of the 892 warm-water coral species are facing multiple threats.

Current Status of Coral Species

Among the coral species assessed, 56 are vulnerable, 251 are endangered, and 33 are critically endangered. Notable critically endangered species include Staghorn coral and Elkhorn coral. The health of these species is crucial for maintaining marine ecosystems.

Economic Impact of Coral Degradation

The loss of coral reefs has serious economic consequences. Healthy reefs protect coastal communities from storms and flooding, but as reefs decline, these communities become more vulnerable to climate impacts, resulting in possible economic losses.

Conservation Efforts and Funding

To fight coral extinction, it is vital to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) has called for $12 billion in funding, but so far, it has only secured $30 million and addressing other threats is also necessary to boost coral resilience.

Future Actions and Conferences

Experts stress the need for immediate action as the ongoing global coral bleaching event is the largest on record, affecting about 80 percent of coral reefs worldwide. The 2025 UN Ocean Conference in France aims to gather support for coral conservation.

Broader Biodiversity Crisis

The situation with corals is part of a larger biodiversity crisis. Over 46,300 species globally are classified as threatened. This includes important percentages of amphibians, sharks, rays, and mammals. Human activities are disrupting ecosystems, stressing the need for urgent intervention.

Important Facts for Exams:
COP29 – The 29th Conference of Parties took place in Baku Azerbaijan. It focused on climate change and its impacts on coral reefs. Global leaders discussed urgent conservation actions.
GFCR – The Global Fund for Coral Reefs aims to secure $12 billion for coral conservation. It has only raised $30 million so far
UNCDF – The UN Capital Development Fund promotes sustainable investments. It supports initiatives for a reef-positive economy. This approach encourages practices that benefit coral ecosystems and local communities.

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