Coral polyps depend on microscopic cilia to push water across their surfaces, and new research suggests those hairs stall as seas warm.[^1][^2][^3][^4]

The WIRED report cites several recent studies that link ciliary slowdown to reduced oxygen exchange, a development that could tip the balance for reefs already stressed by bleaching.[^1][^5][^3][^6][^4][^7]

The overlooked engine of coral respiration

Cilia are rows of hair‑like projections that beat rhythmically to create micro‑currents along the coral surface.[^8][^2][^7] By stirring the thin boundary layer of water, they keep carbon dioxide out and fresh oxygen …