Importance Of Coral Reefs - 1444 Words

Coral reefs are a very important to our ecosystem and our earth. The ocean contains many different types of coral reefs containing a wide variety of living things. Although, every day, it seems that our coral reefs are becoming endangered. While these coral reefs are important to us, they are in great danger of being nonexistent. First of all, a coral reef is defined as a ridge of rock in the sea formed by the growth and deposit of coral. Coral reefs are a diverse underwater ecosystem held together by calcium carbonate structures. They are created by colonies of tiny animals and organisms found in marine water. These animals and organisms contain nutrients needed to help the process of coral reef formation. These reefs begin to form when†¦show more content†¦In these coral reefs, live many different types of plants and animals. Some of these plants include but are not limited to, algae. Algae is known for providing a source of food for the smaller fish and invertebrate sea life. Then they are also known for acting like glue while helping the reefs grow larger and stronger. Then in the reefs, are also seagrasses. These seagrasses can grow very rapidly-growing, and in return, they help trap sediment loads near the reefs. The seagrass can also provide a habitat for smaller fish, invertebrate animals, se a turtles, and even manatees. One of the final plants is the mangroves. Mangroves are plants that can help support a very wide range of reef fishes and other marine life. The roots of the mangrove trees act as a nursery for young reef fishes by giving them an are that is not very well seen. They are able to breed, and the smaller fish are able to grow away from predators. Then there are also animals that live in the reefs. Some of these animals are predators, while some are not. Some of these animals include sea snakes, sea turtles, manatees, dugongs, sponges, crustaceans, and mollusks. These sea snakes are said to be venomous, so scuba divers and fishers are recommended to stay away from them. Then there are the sea turtles. The different species of sea turtles are most often seen resting on the reef itself. One of the species of sea turtles is the Hawksbill turtle. They are a species that is known toShow MoreRelatedEssay about The Importance and Distinction of Coral Reefs1458 Word s   |  6 PagesThe Importance and Distinction of Coral Reefs Nestled in tropical ocean waters, coral reefs provide valuable resources to both human and marine life. Coral reefs are estimated to contain one-quarter of the undersea worlds diverse species while covering less than 0.2 % of the ocean floor. However, coral reefs are in serious danger due to both natural and man-made causes (Edmonds, 1998). Population growth and development has altered the coral reef environment. 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