BleachWatch is an early warning network for coral bleaching and disease in southeast Florida. It helps detect, monitor, and improve scientific understanding of coral bleaching and disease events by:

• Tracking weather conditions and sea surface temperatures for conditions favorable for coral bleaching.
• Collecting field observations on the condition of reefs from trained observers.
• Summarizing data and producing reports on the current conditions in the region.

Get Involved!

Recreational, commercial, and scientific divers are encouraged to become part of the BleachWatch Observer Network by participating in a training session:

• A 1.5-hour classroom session includes an introduction to SEAFAN; a short lesson on coral biology, bleaching and disease; a description of the BleachWatch Early Warning Program and an overview of how to properly assess coral condition, record observations, and submit reports.
• In-water trainings take divers in the field to practice identifying healthy, bleached, and diseased coral, as well as recording observations underwater and filling out BleachWatch reports.
• All participants will be provided with a BleachWatch Kit, which includes a program overview, coral bleaching fact sheet, data sheets and instructions, dive whistle, and coral ID and bleaching example cards to use as a reference below and above the water.