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Coral bleaching

UK //ˈkɒr.əl ˈbliː.tʃɪŋ// US //ˈkɔr.əl ˈbli.tʃɪŋ// Pronunciation

Definition

The process where corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white due to stress.

Listen to definition

In simple words: When coral loses its color and becomes white.

Examples

• Coral bleaching can lead to the loss of marine biodiversity.
• The rise in ocean temperatures is a significant cause of coral bleaching.
• We witnessed coral bleaching firsthand during our scuba diving trip.
• Efforts to prevent coral bleaching include reducing carbon emissions.
• Coral bleaching affects not only sea life but also tourism.
• After the coral bleaching event, the reef ecosystem struggled to recover.

Usage notes

Used mainly in environmental and scientific contexts. Not typically used in casual conversation. Be cautious of the audience's knowledge on marine biology.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun phrase

Memory hint

Think of coral as a colorful sweater fading to white in the sun.

Collocations

• marine ecosystem
• ocean temperatures
• environmental stress
• coral reefs
• climate change

Synonyms

• coral loss
• reef bleaching
• bleached coral

Common mistakes

• Confused with coral dying, which is a later stage after bleaching.
• Using 'bleaching' alone without 'coral' may lead to misunderstanding.
• Assuming all coral will recover after bleaching, which is not always true.