In today's lecture, we'll discuss the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. One key species is the coral reef, which supports about 25% of all marine life. However, rising sea temperatures cause coral bleaching, where corals expel the algae living in their tissues, turning white. A recent study in the Great Barrier Reef found that a 1-degree Celsius increase in water temperature can lead to a 50% reduction in coral cover over a decade. Additionally, ocean acidification, caused by increased CO2 absorption, weakens coral skeletons, making them more vulnerable to storms. Therefore, reducing carbon emissions is critical, but even with immediate action, reefs may take decades to recover.