Top 10 at-risk Coral Species Named January 14, 2011 by lukesheppard

Scientists at the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) have identified the top 10 coral species facing immediate threats of functional extinction. The researchers, who lead the Edge Coral Reefs project, have unveiled plans to conserve the at-risk species and help tackle growing threats such as increasing sea temperatures, elevated acidity, overfishing and pollution. The project focuses on the most evolutionary distinct and globally endangered species. Catherine Head, co-ordinator of the reefs project, said: “Coral reefs are threatened with functional extinction in the next 20-50 years, predominantly due to global climate change.” Regions on top priority for protection include the “coral triangle” around the Philippines, the west Indian ocean around the Mozambique channel, and in the Caribbean channel. Ms Head said: “In these regions, we’ll be supporting and training in-country conservationists to carry out research and implement targeted conservation actions.”