Australia’s Ningaloo Reef, a lesser-known but ecologically vital marine ecosystem on the country’s northwest coast, is facing unprecedented damage due to a prolonged marine heatwave, marking the first time both of the nation’s major reefs—Ningaloo and the Great Barrier Reef—have suffered simultaneous bleaching. Once a vibrant stretch of coral-rich waters known for whale sharks, manta rays, and reef sharks, Ningaloo is now grappling with widespread coral bleaching caused by sustained elevated ocean temperatures. Scientists warn that while some of the reef may recover, the long-term damage could be catastrophic.
The marine heatwave, which began in the Caribbean in 2023, has slowly travelled across the Indo-Pacific, leaving a trail of bleached reefs. By early 2025, peak summer temperatures had pushed Western Australia’s waters beyond safe limits for coral survival. This bleaching event is part of a larger, global crisis—scientists say over 80% of the world’s coral reefs have been impacted during this fourth global bleaching episode.
Marine biologist Dr Kate Quigley explains that the corals’ survival depends on their symbiotic relationship with algae that live within them. As water temperatures rise, this bond breaks down, causing corals to expel the algae and turn ghostly white—a process that compromises their health. Unlike previous events where water temperatures dipped post-summer, this year has seen sustained warming, leaving little time for recovery. “We’re really afraid of seeing really high levels of death,” says Dr Quigley.
Tourists and locals have already witnessed the impact. British-South African visitor Jenna-Rae Clark, who recently explored Ningaloo’s coastline, described the reef as “grey and lifeless.” Local dive operator Sara Morgillo spoke of tourists crying in the water, overwhelmed by the devastation. Though pockets of the reef still remain intact, fears are mounting that declining reef health will affect the region’s tourism industry, which draws around 200,000 visitors annually.
The situation has sparked renewed debate over Australia’s environmental policies. Just north of Ningaloo lies the North West Shelf gas plant, one of the world’s largest fossil fuel projects. Despite the visible effects of climate change on reefs, the federal government recently approved the plant’s operation until 2070 and is considering further expansion into the Browse Basin. Critics see this as a contradiction—pushing fossil fuel development while marine ecosystems suffer the consequences of climate change.
Paul Gamblin from the Australian Marine Conservation Society likens the ongoing bleaching to “an underwater bushfire,” calling it “unprecedented” and “absolutely not normal.” He stresses that government inaction on emissions is intensifying the crisis and urges authorities to draw a clear line against new fossil fuel projects.
Scientists are now racing to study the reef’s response. Dr Tom Holmes and his team from Western Australia’s Department of Biodiversity are monitoring coral survival rates over the coming months. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to selectively breed heat-resistant coral species, though researchers acknowledge this is no substitute for reducing carbon emissions.
Dr Chris Roelfsema from the University of Queensland highlights another strategy—mapping reef health through a combination of underwater photography and satellite imagery. He encourages individuals to take action by supporting eco-conscious political leaders, reducing personal carbon footprints, and adopting sustainable lifestyle habits.
As scientists and conservationists work to safeguard what remains, they stress that coral reefs are not just scenic wonders. They support 25% of marine life, offer coastal protection, and sustain millions of livelihoods globally. Their collapse, experts warn, would have far-reaching consequences not only for biodiversity but for humanity as well.
