What can result from selecting species not aligned with future climate conditions?

Selecting species that are not aligned with future climate conditions can lead to the failure of restoration efforts. This is because coral species have specific environmental requirements, including temperature, salinity, and light conditions. If the species chosen for restoration are not suited to the anticipated changes in these conditions—like rising sea temperatures or altered ocean chemistry—they may struggle to survive and thrive in their new environment. As a result, the overall restoration project may not achieve its goals, leading to a lack of establishment and recruitment of the corals, ultimately impacting the health of the reef ecosystem.

In contrast, options suggesting increased project funding, higher survival rates of coral, or improved biodiversity would typically require the selection of species that are well-adapted to future conditions. By acknowledging the importance of choosing the right species in alignment with predicted environmental changes, successful and sustainable restoration can be achieved, leading to the health and resilience of coral ecosystems.