FAU marine scientist Brian Lapointe examined Looe Key Reef for 30 years and found that coral bleaching there was due not only to global warming, but also to elevated nitrogen levels. The nitrogen comes from sources such as improperly treated sewage, fertilizers, and topsoil.

“Our results provide compelling evidence that nitrogen loading from the Florida Keys and greater Everglades ecosystem caused by humans… is the primary driver of coral reef degradation at Looe Key Sanctuary Preservation Area,” says Lapointe. Nitrogen loading to the coast is expected to increase by 19 percent globally, suggesting a need for urgent management actions.

• Brian LaPointe