Unusually Warm Ocean Temps Likely Through October In Caribbean, GOM - Some Bleaching In Progress

[hatrack]

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Warm ocean temperatures predicted to persist through October in the Caribbean and the central Gulf of Mexico could mean the loss of huge swaths of corals across those regions, U.S. scientists warned Wednesday. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Coral Reef Watch network said the conditions may lead to coral disease outbreaks and bleaching, when the stressed organisms expel the colorful algae living in their tissues, leaving a whitish color.

Coral bleaching that lasts more than a week can kill the organisms, since they rely on the algae for sustenance, leading to the loss of reef habitat for numerous marine species.

Sea surface temperatures in parts of the Caribbean are already at levels typically not seen until late summer months when the water is hottest, said C. Mark Eakin, coordinator of NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch.

Bleaching can occur when sea temperatures rise just a few degrees above the average of the warmest summer months in these areas where coral reefs live. The general average for the hottest summer months in the Caribbean is about 84 degrees Fahrenheit, Eakin said. He noted that sea temperatures in some parts of this region already are at the higher threshold, around 86 degrees, and that some bleaching has already begun. Those temperatures are expected to hold through October.

EDIT

http://www.picayuneitem.com/statenews/local_story_204135450.html

[timeforpeace]

1. Spent the last 6 months sailing the Caribbean and snorkeling and diving in Belize, Honduras, Cozumel

and way east at our starting point, the BVIs. Glad to report it all looks pristine, everywhere. Best, Belize at Lighthouse Atoll. Worst Roatan, Honduras, coral showing signs of diving pressuire but also sand drifts due to the earthquake! Also many barrel-like coral were knocked over like trees after a big blow. But no bleaching anywhere, no signs of damage anywhere except Roatan where careless divers and snorkelers have made contact with the coral at the popular sites.

[hatrack]

2. Encouraging that you saw little bleaching damage!

However, it sounds like you were finishing your trip right as warm weather returned.

I hope you find much the same same time next year.