Embedded Files
October 22, 2025
Drs. Jose Lopez and Ronen Liberman
NCRI Researchers Document Unusual Bleaching Event on Florida's Coral Reef
NCRI Researchers Document Unusual Bleaching Event on Florida's Coral Reef
Researchers from the National Coral Reef Institute have identified and documented a rare coral bleaching event occurring just offshore of Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach, affecting octocorals - soft corals typically known for their resilience to thermal stress. This unusual bleaching, observed by a research team led by Drs. Jose Lopez and Ronen Liberman, raises concerns about rising ocean temperatures and their impact on South Florida’s reef ecosystems, which rely on octocorals for biodiversity, habitat structure, and nutrient cycling.
Media Release: NCRI Scientists Address Octocoral Bleaching Event Off South Florida Coast
Media Release: NCRI Scientists Address Octocoral Bleaching Event Off South Florida Coast
Articles linked below!
Articles linked below!
Unusual coral bleaching in the ocean off Browad County is prompting local researchers to sound the alarm. NBC6's Marissa Bagg reports.
Researchers from Nova Southeastern University (NSU) have discovered and documented a rare and concerning coral bleaching event taking place just offshore of Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) scientists discovered soft corals that are usually more heat tolerant bleached as waters reach 87 degrees Fahrenheit. Miami Herald's Ashley Miznazi reports.
A troubling coral bleaching event off Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach is affecting even resilient octocorals, signaling rising ocean temperatures and threatening vital marine biodiversity, according to researchers at Nova Southeastern University. WMNF's Chris Young reports.
Photo Credit: Ronen Liberman
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse