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A Diversity of Corals Growing in the Mangroves Within Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument

Detailed Description

This photo shows a mangrove ecosystem that may be unique in the Caribbean in terms of the abundance and diversity of corals.

USGS scientists are collaborating with scientists at the University of the Virgin Islands to learn more about why these corals are thriving while coral cover on USVI reefs has declined by 60% from bleaching and disease.  With climate change, sea water temperatures are expected to rise with bleaching events becoming more common.

Sources/Usage

Public Domain.