ASSESSING THE VULNERABILITY OF COASTAL MARINE ECOSYSTEMS TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Abstract

Coastal marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass meadows, and salt marshes, are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, posing significant challenges to biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human livelihoods. Rising sea temperatures have triggered widespread coral bleaching events and disrupted species distributions, while ocean acidification impairs calcifying organisms, weakening the foundation of marine food webs. Sea-level rise and intensifying storm events exacerbate habitat loss, erosion, and salinity changes, further destabilizing these critical ecosystems. The synergistic effects of these climate stressors, compounded by anthropogenic pressures such as pollution, overfishing, and coastal development, have accelerated the degradation of coastal habitats and reduced their resilience. This study assesses the vulnerability of coastal marine ecosystems to climate-induced stressors, highlighting the ecological, economic, and social consequences of their decline. It also explores adaptive responses observed in marine species, such as migration and physiological adjustments, alongside the limitations of these strategies in the face of rapid environmental change. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the importance of conservation initiatives, including habitat restoration, marine protected areas, and sustainable resource management, in mitigating climate impacts and enhancing ecosystem resilience. By providing an integrated understanding of these challenges, this work underscores the urgent need for collaborative global action to protect coastal marine ecosystems and ensure their continued provision of critical services for future generations.