Norfolk Island’s unique corals under triple threat from disease, El Niño and now government-approved dredging

Scientists are sounding the alarm over the potential extinction of unique corals surrounding Norfolk Island, which are now under a severe triple threat. The delicate marine ecosystem faces risks from a prevalent disease, the warming effects of El Niño, and a government-sanctioned dredging project for a neighboring shipping channel. Researchers express grave concern that many of these corals may be species previously unknown to science, making their potential loss even more significant. Compounding these threats is the ongoing issue of sediment and pollution runoff. Inadequate management of agricultural practices, land clearing, and wastewater discharge has been identified as a major contributor to widespread coral disease and harmful algae blooms in the island's bays. The combination of these factors places the future of Norfolk Island's distinctive coral reefs in serious jeopardy.

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Most of the island’s corals are likely to be species that have not been formally described by science.