Coral reefs are a crucial part of the marine ecosystem, providing habitats for all sorts of marine life and protecting coastlines from storm damage. But scientists say rising ocean temperatures are posing a grave threat to the future of the world’s reefs. Ali Rogin reports.

A report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration revealed that 84 percent of the planet’s coral reefs have been hit. The Smithsonian’s Melanie McField says the bleaching is triggered by prolonged exposure to elevated ocean temperature due to human caused climate change.

Melanie McField, Healthy Reefs for Healthy People: It’s very alarming. So I think people really need to recognize what they’re doing by the inaction. It’s the kiss of death for coral reefs.