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Small but promising signs of recovery seen on Great Barrier Reef

Surveys show coral cover has increased in several parts of the Great Barrier Reef, partly due to monsoons bringing cooler weather to the region.

An underwater view of a colorful coral reef
An underwater view of a colorful coral reefPhoto: Francesco Ungaro / Pexels
ABC News Australia50 min ago

Recent surveys of Australia's Great Barrier Reef have found increased coral cover in several parts of the reef system, offering a modest sign of recovery after years of mounting pressure. Scientists say part of the improvement is linked to monsoons that brought cooler weather to the region.

The reef has faced sustained strain from warming seas and repeated bleaching events in recent years, making the latest data a welcome, if partial, signal of resilience. Researchers cautioned that the improvement remains fragile and continues to depend heavily on prevailing climate conditions.

Experts stressed that the reef's long-term health will remain closely tied to broader global climate trends. Scientists said monitoring will continue in the coming seasons to determine whether the recovery proves durable.

Australia-PacificABC News Australia
This article is an AI-curated summary of the original story published by ABC News Australia. The illustration is a stock photo by Francesco Ungaro from Pexels and is not from the original story.

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