Crisis in Paradise: The Menace of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease in Caribbean Coral Ecosystems

Coral reefs, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, are intricate and diverse ecosystems that support many marine species. However, their fragility is increasingly exposed as they face various challenges, from pollution to overfishing and the proliferation of destructive human activities. At the heart of this vulnerability is the intricate symbiosis between coral polyps and the algae that inhabit their tissues, forming the basis of the reef’s health and vitality.