[freshpots]

Most of the increase has been driven by fast-growing Acropora corals, which are hard corals known for their reef-building abilities.

However, AIMS monitoring program team leader Dr Mike Emslie said domination of one species is not ideal.

“These corals are particularly vulnerable to wave damage, like that generated by strong winds and tropical cyclones,” he said.

“They are also highly susceptible to coral bleaching, when water temperatures reach elevated levels, and are the preferred prey for crown-of-thorns starfish.

“This means that large increases in hard coral cover can quickly be negated by disturbances on reefs where Acropora corals predominate.”