Tahiti Pristine Coral reef.

1 February 2022.

Introduction:

The scientists have recently discovered a coral reef along the coast of Tahiti. The reef is two miles long and is unaffected by anthropogenic activities and climate change.

About the coral reef

  • The coral reef was discovered during a dive expedition.
  •  The expedition was supported by UNESCO.
  • The corals discovered were six feet in diameter.
  • The scientists have witnessed coral spawning in the island.

Corals found in Mesophotic zone

  • The coral reefs were discovered at a depth of 100 feet to 210 feet.
  •  This is a bit deeper.
  • That is, the corals were found in the mesophotic zone.
  • These are the deepest zones till which the sunlight can penetrate.
  • This depth protects the corals from human activities.

Not affected by Coral Bleaching

  • In 2019, the entire French Coral Polynesia was affected by coral bleaching.
  •  The coral bleaching occurred due to climate change and global warming.
  • However, this new coral reef was not affected by the 2019 coral bleaching.
  • This is mainly due to its depth.
What is coral bleaching?
  • The corals are marine invertebrates. They hold microscopic algae are zooxanthellae.
  • The algae provides food for the corals and the corals provide accommodation to the algae.
  • They are symbiotic.
  •  Due to global warming and increase in sea temperature, the corals find it difficult to hold the algae.
  •  They release them.
  • The corals get their colours from these algae.
  • When the algae is released they become colourless.
  •  This is called coral bleaching.
  • With this, the corals die as they do not get food.

What is Coral spawning witnessed in the reef?

  • Coral spawning is a natural phenomenon.
  • During coral spawning, multiple species of corals release their eggs and sperms.
  • They float to the surface of the ocean, fertilise and form new larvae.
  •  The synchronisation occurs after the new moon day.

Tahiti

  • Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia.
  • It is located in the central Pacific Ocean.
  • Tahiti was formed by volcanic activity.
  • The island accounts to around 70% of the population of French Polynesia.

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