'Shocking' Mass Bleaching Drains Life From Australian Reef

Source: International Business Times

Infographic map showing coral reefs off the coast of Australia AFP Alarming levels of coral bleaching have been recorded off Australia's western coast, scientists said Wednesday, turning huge chunks of a celebrated reef system a sickly dull white. A months-long marine heatwave had "cooked" the sprawling Ningaloo Reef, ocean scientist Kate Quigley said, part of a world heritage-listed marine park renowned for vibrant corals and migrating whale sharks. Although environment officials were still verifying the scale of damage, Quigley said it was on track to be the region's worst mass-bleaching event in years.