CORAL REEFS

Coral Reefs: Ecosystems Under Threat

What Are Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are structures formed by colonies of tiny animals called corals. They thrive in warm, shallow waters and provide habitats for thousands of marine species. Despite covering less than one percent of the ocean floor, reefs support about a quarter of all marine life. They also offer billions of dollars in economic and environmental services, including food, coastal protection, and tourism.

Why Coral Reefs Matter

  • Biodiversity: Coral reefs are home to fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and countless other organisms.

  • Coastal Defense: They act as natural barriers, reducing wave energy and protecting shorelines.

  • Human Livelihoods: Millions of people depend on reefs for fishing and tourism.

Major Threats

  • Climate Change: Rising sea temperatures cause coral bleaching, where corals expel the algae they rely on for energy. This weakens and often kills them.

  • Ocean Acidification: Increased carbon dioxide lowers ocean pH, making it harder for corals to build skeletons.

  • Pollution: Runoff from agriculture, sewage, and plastics damages reef health.

  • Overfishing and Destructive Practices: Removing key species disrupts balance; destructive methods like blast fishing physically destroy reefs.

  • Coastal Development: Dredging and construction smother reefs and reduce water quality.

Current Status

Coral bleaching events are becoming more frequent and severe worldwide. Local stressors such as pollution combine with global pressures, accelerating reef decline. Some regions, including the Great Barrier Reef, have already lost significant portions of coral cover.

Path Forward

Protecting coral reefs requires global and local action. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, managing fisheries sustainably, and controlling pollution are essential steps. Restoration projects, such as coral gardening and artificial reef structures, offer hope for rebuilding damaged ecosystems.

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