From Phoenix to Sisyphus: Climate Change Impacts and Intervention Strategies for Arabian Gulf Coral Reefs

Burt, J.A., 2024. From Phoenix to Sisyphus: Climate change impacts and intervention strategies for Arabian Gulf coral reefs. In: Phillips, M.R.; Al-Naemi, S., and Duarte, C.M. (eds.), Coastlines under Global Change: Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2024 (Doha, Qatar). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 113, pp. 839-845. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. Coral reefs in the Arabian Gulf are the region's most biodiverse ecosystem and support critical fishing and dive tourism industries. These reefs, in the world's hottest sea, host coral species with exceptional heat tolerance that survive temperatures over 34°C each summer. Despite their remarkable adaptation, these corals are increasingly susceptible to climate change, with recent marine heatwaves pushing temperatures beyond even their physiological limits. Historically, bleaching events were infrequent, with Gulf reefs demonstrating resilience and recovery in the wake of bleaching disturbances, metaphorically rising like a Phoenix from the ashes of these events. However, climate change has increased the frequency and the severity of these events, shifting the narrative towards one of a Sisyphean struggle, where recovery efforts seem increasingly futile against relentless bleaching. Recurrent marine heatwaves in 1996, 1998, 2010-12, 2017 and 2021 have caused increasing degradation of coral reefs across the region. Given the ecological and economic importance of these reefs, urgent conservation and management strategies are needed. This dire situation necessitates robust, innovative conservation measures that integrate scientific research with traditional management practices to mitigate impacts and enhance reef resilience. Strategies such as selective breeding for heat tolerance, assisted migration, and the expansion of marine protected areas must be prioritized to preserve these important ecosystems. Effective coral reef management and conservation will require better cooperation among regional nations to ensure the sustainability of the Arabian Gulf coral reefs in the face of accelerating climate change.