[Coral-List] Disaster in the Gilf and Coral Reefs

[Steve Mussman]

Found this link which explains that 
the effects of oil spills on coral reefs 
is difficult to predict because of a variety
of factors that can alter the dynamics.  

“There are many factors that influence the effect
of an oil spill on any ecosystem, and it is not
surprising that there are conflicting reports of
effects on coral reefs.Some of the most obvious
factors are: the amount and type of oil spilled;
the degree of weathering of the oil prior to contact
with corals; the frequency of the contamination;
the presence of other stress factors, such as high 
sedimentation; physical factors such as storms, 
rainfall and currents; the state of the tide during
the initial contamination is very important;
the nature of the clean-up operation; the type
of coral; and seasonal factors, e.g. coral spawning.”

For the complete report: 
http://www.ipieca.org/activities/oilspill/downloads/publications/reports/english/Vol3_Corals.pdf

Consider the source and lets hope for a best case scenario.


Regards,
 Steve