The average surface temperature of the global oceans in May 2025 reached the second highest ever recorded, according to the European Climate Change Service Copernicus.
"The global average sea surface temperature in May 2025 was 20.79 °C, 0.14 °C below the May 2024 record," the experts reported.
Scientists explain the high ocean temperatures by the fact that the oceans absorb 25-30 % of CO2 from the atmosphere and about 90 % of excess heat. Climatologists consider the ocean to be the Earth's primary natural regulating mechanism against global warming. However, scientists warn that this could cause dramatic disruption to marine ecosystems.
For example, warming and acidification of the oceans prevent coral polyps from absorbing calcium and carbonate ions, which can lead to coral reef collapse. Experts are also concerned that these processes may accelerate the reproduction of unicellular algae, which could significantly reduce oxygen levels for other marine life.
TASS/gnews.cz - GH
