Unusually warm weather has raised concerns over possible coral bleaching in the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Marine Park, prompting a Reef Watch on Tuesday to assess the condition of one of the country’s most important marine ecosystems.
The natural marine park, home to extraordinary marine biodiversity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects around 600 species of fish, more than 360 species of corals, 13 species of dolphins and whales, 11 shark species, manta rays, sea turtles, and millions of seabirds.
“If you have noticed medyo mainit po ang panahon than usual so we worry about coral bleaching,” said Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) Tourism Officer John Cabiles.
“Ang coral bleaching po ay isang stressor ng corals natin… kapag na-i-stress po sila pumuputi po sila at ‘pag prolonged yung stress nila ay may possibility po silang mamatay,” he added.
One of the objectives of the Reef Watch, Cabiles explained, was to assess the ecological integrity of Tubbataha and determine whether rising temperatures are affecting its coral reefs.
Coral bleaching occurs when prolonged heat stress causes corals to expel the algae that provide them with food and color.
If temperatures return to normal, corals may recover, but prolonged bleaching can lead to their death.
The Reef Watch was conducted by the TMO in partnership with the Philippine Navy’s Naval Command West (NCW). Members of the media, private stakeholders, and government agencies also joined the activity.
The TMO has yet to release the findings of the latest reef assessment, including whether any signs of coral bleaching were observed during the Reef Watch.
