Marine heatwaves and coral bleaching: what are the opportunities and challenges for research and public policy?

Marine heatwaves, intensified by climate change, are placing increasing pressure on tropical coral reefs and threatening their resilience. Understanding these phenomena and their ecological impacts is essential to better anticipate risks and adapt conservation strategies. This article explains how marine heatwaves work and their ecological consequences, before exploring possible courses of action: initiatives such as the creation of protected areas, innovative financing mechanisms, and local governance. It highlights existing efforts and strategies to be developed in order to strengthen reef resilience and enhance conservation in the face of future challenges.