Scientists from around the world have called for the immediate protection of the Verde Island Passage, known as the world’s most diverse marine ecosystem, to protect the area from the risk of climate change particularly on it rich marine species.

The scientists made the call during a gathering organized by Conservation International (CI) and held in Washington, D.C. to assess the impacts of climate change on the Verde Island Passage, located between Batangas and Mindoro provinces.

The Verde Island Passage Marine Corridor, a narrow corridor of coral-filled tropical waters, has 1,736 overlapping marine species over a 10-kilometer by 10-kilometer area which is said to have the highest concentration of marine life in the world.

It is considered “the center of the center” of the world’s marine biodiversity due to its significantly high number of species.

During the meeting, the scientists collectively called for immediate action from the global community to protect the hugely important site.

CI said the Passage “has arguably the highest concentration of marine species of any region in the world’s oceans, including whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) and giant clams (Tridacna gigas).”

However, the scientists said climate change, along with over-exploitation of resources, is threatening the marine habitats.

“The marine habitats and species of the Verde Island Passage are already threatened by human impacts, like overfishing, pollution and coastal infrastructure development. Climate change is intensifying these impacts, with severe consequences for the well-being of the people of the area, since they depend on fishing and tourism industry,” said Dr. Giuseppe Di Carlo, CI marine climate change manager.

Di Carlo said climate change will not only affect marine habitats and species but also fisheries and the tourism industry of the popular destination with dire consequences for the nearly two million people who rely on them for food and income.

Significant findings on the effects of climate change to the Verde Island Passage were raised by scientists during the meeting.

They said the increasing ocean temperatures in the Verde Island Passage are causing coral bleaching, “meaning that corals can no longer support the array of plants and animals that rely on them.”

Likewise, they pointed out that sea level rise is causing coral drowning as the water gets deeper and coral growth is inhibited.

The experts cited that sea level rise is also damaging mangroves that protects the coastline and coastal communities from typhoons, reduces the impacts of floods and provides important habitats for young fish.

They also noted the increased storm frequency and intensity that continues to affect the marine habitats, as well as coastal settlements and the tourist trade in the area.

“This workshop tried to offer concrete solutions to adapting to the effects of climate change, so that the unique biodiversity of this place can survive for future generations,” Di Carlo added.

The scientists were joined by government officials and local people who discussed the changes in the environment, how the local community is being affected and what needs to be done to adapt.

“The islands are facing the collapse of fish stocks, damage from aquaculture activities like shrimp farming, and falling tourist revenues,” CI said.

A series of measures to protect the area were recommended by the scientists, including ensuring that seagrass beds, mangroves and other habitats that provide important ecological services are included in protected areas.

They also urged the promotion of alternative livelihoods such as seaweed farming, and construction of ports on stilts.