Which strategy can improve the resilience of coral reefs against climate change?

Establishing large-scale marine protected areas is a strategy that can significantly improve the resilience of coral reefs against the impacts of climate change. Marine protected areas (MPAs) serve to safeguard coral ecosystems by regulating activities that can cause stress, such as overfishing, development, and pollution. By creating zones where human activities are limited or managed, these areas allow for the preservation of biodiversity and the protection of habitats that are crucial for the survival of coral species.

MPAs also contribute to enhancing the health and reproductive capacity of coral populations. Healthy reefs can better withstand stressors, such as elevated sea temperatures and ocean acidification, which are exacerbated by climate change. Moreover, with reduced human pressure, there is often a recovery in fish populations, which plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the coral ecosystem.

In contrast, options like limiting biodiversity, reducing coral reproduction efforts, or removing all fishing restrictions would likely harm the ecological balance necessary for the resilience of coral reefs. Maintaining biodiversity is essential for ecosystem stability, while coral reproduction efforts are crucial for recovery and growth. Similarly, unrestricted fishing can lead to overexploitation of marine species that are integral to the health of coral reefs. Thus, establishing large-scale marine protected areas is a proactive measure to