Describe one example of how global warming is placing ecosystems under increased pressure

Global warming is placing ecosystems under increased pressure in numerous ways. One example is the impact on coral reefs, which are highly sensitive to changes in water temperature.

Step 1: Increase in Global Temperature Global warming, caused by an increase in greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere, leads to an increase in global temperatures. This includes the temperature of the ocean's surface.

Step 2: Coral Bleaching When the ocean's temperature rises, corals become stressed, which causes them to expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues. This phenomenon is known as coral bleaching. The algae provide the coral with food through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colors. Without the algae, the corals turn white (hence the term "bleaching") and are at risk of starving.

Step 3: Death of Coral Reefs If the water temperature remains high for too long, the corals cannot recover and will eventually die. This has a ripple effect on the entire ecosystem that depends on the coral reefs for survival.

Step 4: Impact on Biodiversity Coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, providing a home for thousands of species. The death of coral reefs due to global warming can lead to the loss of these species and can disrupt the balance of the entire oceanic ecosystem.

In conclusion, global warming is placing ecosystems under increased pressure by causing phenomena like coral bleaching, which can lead to the death of coral reefs and a loss of biodiversity.