Hawaiian corals may adapt to heat stress

A new study led by oceanographers at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa used high-resolution ocean modeling to project future heat stress on United States — Hawaiian coral reefs through the 21st century. The research, published in Scientific Reports, found that while corals may face unprecedented human-induced heat stress, they may have the ability to adapt even under a high emissions scenario. The study reveals spatial differences in projected heat stress, with corals around United States — Hawaii Island expected to face higher stress than other islands. Lead author Kate Feloy emphasized the importance of small-scale ocean dynamics in shaping these patterns. The research provides valuable spatial information for local marine management, though it focuses only on temperature and does not account for other stressors like ocean acidification and low oxygen.