Abnormally warm ocean temperatures are creating conditions that threaten to kill coral across the equatorial Pacific, North Pacific and western Atlantic Oceans, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said. Coral bleaching occurs when coral is stressed by changes in its environment, causing it to release algae living in its tissue. The coral then turns pale or white and become more susceptible to disease. In severe cases, the coral can die, permanently changing the habitat for fish and shellfish.

Warm oceans cause concern of coral bleaching. (2015, August 27). Manila Bulletin, p. B-8.