Octisalate is a UVB-absorbing chemical that bioaccumulates in coral tissues and marine organisms. Studies reveal it disrupts the photosynthetic processes of zooxanthellae, the symbiotic algae that provide corals with up to 90% of their energy needs. This disruption leads to coral bleaching and starvation. Octisalate also interferes with hormone regulation in marine animals, particularly affecting reproductive development in fish and invertebrates. It has been shown to accumulate in reef sediments where it continues to leach into the water column, creating persistent contamination that impairs coral larval recruitment and reduces reef biodiversity.