What are Coral Reefs?
Coral Reefs are organisms that are made up of thousands of polyps that group themselves into colonies. Each polyp produces calcium carbonate helps protect their internal organs. Coral reefs need sunlight to generate energy. This is why the bulk of all Coral reefs around the world are located in shallow clear water near coast lines. Coral reefs thrive in warm ocean tropical and sub-tropical conditions.
Polyps create coral skeletons
NOAA Photo/Schmahl
The Importance of coral Reefs.
Coral Reefs are vital to our oceans and Ecosystems all over the world. Coral reefs are home to over 25 percent of all marine life.
Coral reefs protect shores and coastlines from tropical storms by acting a buffer.
Coral Reefs are also major tourist attractions that generate a lot of revenue. Though tourism destroys the reefs in a number of ways.
Human Impacts on the Coral Reefs.
Coral Reefs are extremely fragile ecosystems. That is highly susceptible to changes in water quality and temperature. This is a problem due to pollution from factories, concrete, and car emissions. Coral Reefs become stressed and can die when Environmental conditions exceed their natural tolerances.
The photos above are pictures of Coral that have been impacted by influences mentioned above.