Summary
A part of the Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is experiencing significant coral bleaching due to a "marine heatwave." The BBC's Katy Watson visited the area to explore whether it is possible to reverse the damage.
Key Facts
- Ningaloo Reef is located in Western Australia.
- The reef is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Coral bleaching happens when corals lose the algae that give them color, often due to higher water temperatures.
- The bleaching at Ningaloo Reef is part of what scientists term a "marine heatwave."
- Coral reefs are important because they support a wide range of marine life and help protect shorelines from extreme weather.
- The BBC investigated if the damage to the coral can be undone.