Source: UPI
August 30, 2010

Palm Beach, FL - A rare series of cold-water upwellings from the deep ocean has severely damaged coral reefs in Florida already stressed by pollution, scientists say.

The blasts of cold water hit the reefs in July, fatally bleaching large areas of coral, already under siege from sewage, fertilizers, pesticides and algae, The Palm Beach (Fla.) Post reported.

Much of the damage hit staghorn coral, an endangered species.

The impact is not just environmental; there an economic cost as well because marinas, boat-sellers, bait shops and fishing and dive charters depend on the health of the reefs.

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