A recent study reveals a drastic decline in coral reefs surrounding Bonaire, a Dutch Caribbean island. Currently, only 5% of the seabed is covered in coral, a stark contrast to the 60% coverage recorded fifty years ago, representing a loss of 90% of the original coral. Scientists attribute this devastation primarily to rising sea temperatures caused by increased CO2 emissions and exacerbated by phenomena like El Niño. Coral disease, also linked to climate change, further contributes to the problem, making reefs more vulnerable. Researchers and local marine park managers observe a clear and visible deterioration, with long-time residents noting the reefs are no longer obstacles for wading through the sea. New field data indicates the situation has worsened since previous assessments, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.