Overview of Content
The fourth global coral bleaching event, known as GCBE4, started in January 2023 and is the most severe and rapid coral bleaching event ever recorded. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), almost all coral reefs in the Atlantic Ocean have faced heat stress, marking an alarming rise in coral degradation that has surpassed previous events from 2014 to 2017 by over 11%.
Historical Context
This bleaching event is significant when compared to past occurrences. The previous event, GCBE3, lasted for three years and impacted 65.7% of coral reefs, while GCBE4 has affected at least 77% of global reef areas in just 20 months. Previous questions from Indian government job exams, such as those from UPSC and SSC, have examined environmental issues, including coral bleaching and its effects on marine biodiversity.
Q&A Section
- Q1: What is coral bleaching?
A: Coral bleaching occurs when corals lose their color due to stress, often from increased water temperatures. - Q2: How does climate change affect coral reefs?
A: Climate change leads to rising sea temperatures, causing stress and bleaching in coral reefs. - Q3: What are the effects of coral bleaching on marine life?
A: Coral bleaching can disrupt marine ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and affecting species that depend on coral reefs. - Q4: Which regions are most affected by coral bleaching?
A: Areas like the Caribbean, South China Sea, and regions like Palau and Guam have reported severe bleaching. - Q5: What actions are being taken to address coral bleaching?
A: Scientists and organizations like the UN are calling for urgent measures and discussions to protect coral reefs.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
- MCQ 1: What event is GCBE4?
- A) A global coral restoration event
- B) The fourth global coral bleaching event
- C) A coral conservation conference
- D) An ocean temperature monitoring program
- MCQ 2: Which ocean has been heavily impacted by coral bleaching in GCBE4?
- A) Indian Ocean
- B) Atlantic Ocean
- C) Arctic Ocean
- D) Pacific Ocean
- MCQ 3: How long did GCBE3 last?
- A) 1 year
- B) 2 years
- C) 3 years
- D) 4 years
- MCQ 4: Which phenomenon is often associated with coral bleaching?
- A) La Niña
- B) El Niño
- C) Both A and B
- D) None of the above
- MCQ 5: What is the primary cause of coral bleaching?
- A) Pollution
- B) Overfishing
- C) Increased water temperatures
- D) Marine diseases
Importance for Competitive Exams
Understanding coral bleaching is vital for candidates preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and other state-level exams. This topic highlights environmental awareness, which is increasingly relevant in today's job market, especially for roles in government and environmental agencies.
