New study of global reef growth over past 12,000 years offers insights into impact of rising ocean temperatures

Coral reefs over the past 12,000 years grew best when the ocean temperature was 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius), according to new research from Florida Tech. Recent ocean warming and regional and local disturbances are reducing coral reefs' capacity to keep pace with rates of sea level rise. This research is important because looking into the past helps us understand how reefs may respond in the future.