Coral Reefs

What is coral? It is a limestone rock made up of the skeletons of tiny marine organisms called coral polyps. They are animals related to sea anemones which exist in large colonies. As they die they leave behind a hard skeleton consisting of calcium carbonate which appears like rock.

The coral polyps are carnivorous using tentacles to sting and kill tiny zooplankton. They are also nourished by minute, single-celled plants called zooxznthellae that live within the coral tissue and use sunlight to manufacture food for themselves and the coral.

What is a coral reef? An accumulation of coral formed around the edges of landmasses under certain conditions.

What are the necessary conditions for coral growth? Sea temperature of not less than 21ºC. Maximum 30-40m from the sea surface – the need for sun light. Clear oxygenated water. Plentiful supply of microscopic zooplankton. Not fresh or silt-laden water. 30 ºN - 30ºS. Eastern sides of land masses – warm currents.

What are the necessary conditions for coral growth?

Sea temperature of not less than 21ºC.

Maximum 30-40m from the sea surface – the need for sun light.

Clear oxygenated water.

Plentiful supply of microscopic zooplankton.

Not fresh or silt-laden water.

30 ºN - 30ºS.

Eastern sides of land masses – warm currents.