The hidden stress facing coral reef fish in the Arabian Gulf
Phys.org
February 24, 2026
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A groundbreaking study from NYU Abu Dhabi reveals a pressing concern for small coral reef fish in the Arabian Gulf: they are grappling with an unseen stressor—nighttime hypoxia. When oxygen levels drop at night on overheated reefs, these fish must expend additional energy to recover the following day. Over time, this extra strain could impair their growth, survival rates, and the delicate balance of coral reef ecosystems.
The study highlights that rising temperatures in the Arabian Gulf exacerbate the issue by reducing oxygen solubility in water. At night, when photosynthesis ceases, oxygen levels naturally decline, creating hypoxic conditions. Fish respond by increasing their metabolic rates to cope with lower oxygen levels, diverting energy that would otherwise be used for growth, reproduction, or escaping predators. This adaptation comes at a cost, potentially jeopardizing the survival of these vital
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/24/2026