Early Signs of Coral Bleaching Detected in Alor Marine Park

Coral bleaching has been confirmed to occur in the Alor Islands Marine Park and surrounding waters, specifically at the dive sites of Kelalaka and Melangwala in Alor. The Nautika Foundation team—consisting of Hansen Oei, Haries Sukandar, Sandra Augusta, and Colin Ong—conducted a rapid survey on April 11, 2025, and compiled a report from divers at Nautika Dive Alor. During dives lasting 30 and 60 minutes at depths of 3 to 30 meters, we found that less than 25% of the coral cover had experienced bleaching. Although this percentage is still considered mild, the threat is very real, especially since one of the affected colonies had a diameter of up to 3 meters.

The most affected coral type are Encrusting and Massive, primarily Porites and some colonies of Goniopora. This area was previously known for its healthy and productive coral reefs, but rising sea temperatures and environmental pressures are beginning to disrupt the stability of the ecosystem. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel their symbiotic algae, Zooxanthellae—which provide them with color and energy—due to environmental stressors such as elevated sea temperatures, pollution, human activities, and other oceanographic factors.

Bleaching has serious consequences for the people of Alor who depend on the sea for their livelihoods. Coral reefs are the foundation of marine life: they provide habitat for thousands of species, serve as a source of food and economic value, and support the growing marine tourism industry. In Alor, more than 200,000 people rely on the sea for their survival. Therefore, when coral reefs are under pressure, it threatens not only the marine ecosystem but also the social, cultural, and economic resilience of coastal communities.

We have reported the findings of this survey with the management of the Alor Islands Marine Park and Surrounding Waters (UPTD), as part of a broader monitoring system. While waiting for further strategic actions, we continue to strengthen coral rehabilitation efforts and care for our nurseries sustainably. We undertake these small efforts with great dedication, because we believe that when done collectively, small actions can lead to significant change. The coral reefs of Alor deserve to shine in their original colors—not only for the ocean but for our future together.