Tiny Hairs That Help Corals Breathe May Malfunction in Warming Oceans

Coral researchers have discovered a crucial aspect of coral physiology that may be impacted by warming oceans: tiny hairs called cilia that help corals breathe. These cilia, which are found on the coral's surface, are crucial for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. As coral reefs face rising ocean temperatures, the cilia may malfunction, making it harder for corals to survive. This finding could be a key factor in understanding the fate of coral reefs in a changing climate.