Scientists are using artificial intelligence (AI) to aid in the rapid decline of coral reefs in Florida, where about 90% of coral cover has been lost over the past 40 years. The problem arose after a record-breaking ocean heat wave in 2023, which resulted in widespread bleaching across multiple coral species. The University of Miami's Marybeth Arcodia and her team developed a model powered by AI that can predict heat stress events up to six weeks in advance. The model pulls data from various public sources to predict specific events at specific reef sites, a shift from regional forecasts. The researchers believe the AI could be a game changer as it can predict when to expect stress at a specific reef site and guide restoration efforts. As ocean temperatures rise again heading into summer, scientists believe this could provide critical protection to an ecosystem already on the brink.