Coral reefs are less than 1% of the oceans floor but support around 25% of marine life. They are made up of very small animals known as polyps. They protect our shores and provide millions of families with food. However, they are under threat from warmer oceans, pollution and overfishing. This article will tell you what coral reefs are, why they’re important and what is threatening them.
Why Coral Reefs Are Important
Coral reefs can be seen as underwater cities. They provide shelter to lots of different fish. This is why they’re known as the rainforests of the sea. Many fish that are fished commercially rely on coral reefs at some point in their lives.
We rely on coral reefs. Over half a billion people rely on them for food, money or protection.
They help us as they are natural barriers and help prevent damage caused by waves in storms. This can make the difference between a damaged village and a safe village in countries such as the Maldives, Philippines and Fiji. Coral reefs help bring in billions of pounds from tourism. People go diving and fishing. Some animals found on coral reefs are helping scientists develop new medicines.
Threats to Coral Reefs
The main threat to coral reefs is temperature. If the sea becomes too hot then the coral will expel the colourful algae inside of them. This causes coral bleaching and makes them turn white. If the high temperatures continue then the coral will starve. There have been mass coral bleaching events on several continents including big parts of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
Other threats include:
•Ocean acidification – The ocean absorbs carbon dioxide from the air which makes it harder for the coral to make their hard shells.
•Run off – Fertilisers, sewage and soil from farms and towns cause more algae to grow.
•Overfishing – Taking away fish that eat algae causes more algae to grow. Dynamite and cyanide fishing can also damage the reef.
•Tourism – Anchors from boats, walking on top of the coral and some sun creams can damage the delicate coral.
However, coral can recover if the stress is reduced. This can be done by reducing emissions, removing pollutants from waste water, creating marine conservation zones and using coral friendly sun creams.
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