The Endangerment Of Coral Reefs

The Endangerment Of Coral Reefs
The Endangerment of Coral Reefs When people, tourists especially, ask themselves what is one of the most memorable moments they have
experienced in the Florida Keys, the first thing that comes to mind is the ocean. Not only the ocean in general, but what is beyond, or in other
words, " what is beneath?". Far in the aquamarine water there is another world that people do not even know about, where many different species of
life come together and form a place of peace and beauty. This world is called a coral reef. Coral reefs are one of the most beautiful sanctuaries where not
only tourists, but Floridians go forth and admire their unique beauty underwater and see life in another perspective; pure bliss. Whether there are the
colorful ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Delicate purple sea fans, blood red sponges, spiny puffer fish, poisonous fish, giant clams, yellow–lip snakes and giant manta rays are just a small
sample of the fascinating residents that awe visitors from the terrestrial realm (Weber)." To get more in detail about the importance of coral reefs,
they are providers of food source and living as well as the fact that they are among the most biologically diverse regions on Earth. The actual coral
itself is known to be "extremely ancient that evolved into reef building forms over the last 25 years" (Donner). There are two types of coral, one is
hard coral, which is the major reef building species and then there is soft coral, which are sea fans and sea whips. The reefs are classified into
three types: barrier reefs, fringing reefs, and atolls. They create specialized habitats that provide shelter, food and breeding sites for numerous
plants and animals. Zooxan thellae is the algae found on coral reefs and the small organisms live together, which is one the main food sources on
the reefs for all the species in the ocean. Florida's coral reefs are very important to its state. "It is a fact that Florida is the only state is the United
States to have extensive shallow coral reef formations near its coast (Florida's Coral reefs)." Molasses Reef, White Banks Reef, Mosquito Reef,
Grecian Rocks, French Reef, and John Pennekamp's Christ of the Abyss sanctuary are among the best well–known
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Corals And Coral Oceans : The Great Barrier Reef
Figure 1
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system that stretches over 1,400 miles through the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
Many kinds of coral make up the Great Barrier reef and they are an essential part in keeping a heathy marine ecosystem. They protect coastlines from
damage due to waves and tropical storms, they provide habitats and shelter for marine life, they are a source of nitrogen and nutrients to underwater
food chains, and do many more things to ensure the survival of marine life. Due to their versatility it is vital to understand the relationship between the
corals and algae and the threat they are facing.
Figure 2
The serious threat that is endangering coral, is something called bleaching.4,7 Coral bleaching is when the algae attached to these corals are ejected
due to extreme temperatures and give off a dull white color instead of the vibrant shades they once held. Essentially, when it gets too hot the
zooxanthellae algae are expelled because they produce high levels of oxygen waste which poison the coral polyp. To preserve themselves the corals
expel the algae, leaving itself weak and vulnerable. The temperature where this begins to happen is at 30 degrees Celsius, which is 86.4 Fahrenheit.
Once stripped of the algae the coral only has about eight weeks for the algae to return to the polyp before it dies completely.6 However, if the water
temperature returns to normal, this will give the coral back their vibrancy and will

Hawaii Coral Reef
Introduction
The purpose of this research is to apply the knowledge learned about the ecology of the Hawaiian Coral Reef to a real–life situation. The coral reef
stretches over 1,000 miles in the Pacific Ocean. In the Pacific Ocean, near the 124 islands of Hawaii, is the Hawaiian Coral Reef, which covers nearly
1,200 miles. Out of all the coral reefs in the world, the Hawaiian reef consists of 85% of all reefs. Coral Reefs are made of organisms, coral, and
limestone skeletons. 25% of organisms are not existent anywhere else in the world. Abiotic factors are nonliving things, and abiotic factors of acoral
reef are depth, light, wave motion, salinity, and temperature of the ocean. Biotic factors, living factors, is the whole coral reef, ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Primary producers produce their own nutrients, and make their own food through photosynthesis. Those organisms are plankton and sea weeds. The
second on trophic levels are the secondary consumers such as smaller fish and sea urchins. Third on the trophic levels are decomposers.
Decomposers are lobsters and sea turtles. Tertiary consumers are the top of the food chain, they are sharks and bigger fish. Predation is major in a
coral reef because there is so much food supply. Mimicry is used to keep the predators away but wearing bright

Coral Bleaching In Australia
The researchers from the Australian universities has identified genes that allow some algae living in corals to tolerate higher ocean temperatures than
others. The problem of coral bleaching is becoming more urgent throughout the world, so Australian scientists decided to study it on a genetical level.
The genes could act as markers to understand the risk of coral bleaching in different areas of tropical reefs including the Great Barrier Reef.
According to the latest research of scientist team led by the University of New South Wales (UNSW), tropical corals cannot survive without the
Symbiodinium algae that live inside them. These photosynthetic organisms supply the corals with all their food, more than 90 percent. UNSW
specialists say that increased water temperatures stress the algae, provoking them to produce an excess of toxic substances, which called reactive oxygen
species. As a result of intoxication, damage both the algae and the corals. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
That's very bad for marine ecology and size of Great Barrier Reef, notes student Rachel Levin. On a genetical level, there have some reactions too. "We
found they can switch on genes to produce proteins that neutralize the toxic chemicals," explains Levin, whose article on coral bleaching was published
in the Molecular Biology and Evolution.
Coral bleaching research was led by the UNSW Professor Peter Steinberg, Director of the Sydney Institute of Marine Science, and Professor Madeleine
van Oppen of the Australian Institute of Marine Science and the University of Melbourne. Their heat–stress experiment conducted in the laboratory,
showed that tiny algae have more genes than humans do. That's why the algal genes are able to activate or de–activate needed reaction on the

The Destruction Of Coral Reefs
Few places are as teaming with life as coral reefs. However, this is all soon to change due to human negligence. Human activity and stupidity is
leading to the destruction of the vast majority of coral reefs and is expected to continue to do so until coral reefs, as well as the species that reside in
and around them, are a thing of the past.
Coral reefs are extremely biologically and environmentally important (7). Not only are they home to over a million species of fish, invertebrates,
and algae currently occupying coral reefs but there could be hundreds of thousands more species yet to be discovered (8). These reef dwelling
species are food to over a billion people around the globe. Coral is also used as a building material and is a major tourist attraction, aiding the
economies of communities bordering their coasts.
Humans are actively destroying reefs through processes such as destructive fishing, overfishing, careless tourism, pollution, sedimentation, coral
mining, coral bleaching, and global warming.
Destructive fishing destroys coral reefs and hinders their future production of fish and marine life. It includes poison and explosive fishing. Poison
fishing uses chemicals such as cyanide and is used popularly by aquariums and traders to collect fish without killing them and is very popular in the
Philippines, Indonesia, and the islands of Micronesia. The fish are stunned by the chemicals and therefore are easier to capture. This method poisons
far more than the target

Coral Reef Pollution
The ocean full of life and undiscovered wonders is changing from a diverse biom(define)e to a polluted landscape(change). These changes can be
seen through the coral reefs that reside mostly on shores. Through the window provided by the diverse biome of coral reefs we can see how the ocean
reacts to the changes being sustained(change). Humans play a major part in the growth of the coral reef(change). The pollution we make from the gases,
chemicals, and tools we use end up in the ocean especially effecting reefs as they are located near shores(rewrite). With the ever increasing
temperatures due to global warming the coral reef biomes are becoming unstable(rewrite). The increasing acidification of the ocean is a ticking bomb
for coral reefs(change). I will be looking at the effects these issues have on both coral reef biomes and the ocean, as I believe through coral reef
biomes we can both see the health of the ocean and the effectiveness of solutions are to reduce the current issues plaguing the ocean.(change)
Human introduction into the ocean and reefs causes overfishing. The increasing cause of sound pollution by humans is drowning out the oceans
natural sounds. The litter left behind equally effects both coral and the ocean.
Overfishing by humans effects the health of the targeted species will also destroying the natural order of the area. According to the National Ocean
Service (NOAR) the effects of overfishing on coral reefs cause a limited amount of fish to replenish

The Importance Of Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems that are held together by calcium carbonate that is secreted by corals. They are usually built by colonies of tiny
animals that are in marine water containing some nutrients (McCook, Jompa & Diaz–Pulido, 2001). Coral reefs are mainly built by the stony corals
consisting of polyps that are in groups. These polyps belong to groups of animals called the Cnidarian that includes the sea anemones and jellyfish.
Coral reefs mainly grow in warm, shallow, sunny and agitated water. For many years coral reefs have been used as a construction tool. They have
been a thriving business since they are collected and sold as souvenirs in the aquarium trade. In the ecosystem, the coral reefs form one of the most
productive ecosystems having provided a complex and a varied ecosystem.
In our ecosystem coral reefs have been a good service to the ecosystems like tourism, fisheries and coastal protection. Globally their value has been
estimated to be between $29 billion and $375 billion per year (McCook, Jompa & Diaz–Pulido, 2001). They have been of significance to the coastal
line by protecting the shorelines through absorptions of the waves. Coral reef has been estimated to be consuming more than six million tons of fish
every year. Of well managed they can yield more than fifteen tonnes of seafood per square kilometre.
Although their significance coral reefs have been the endangered species. Reefs are at risk with the encroachment of algae. When overfishing

Coral Bleaching
Coral Bleaching
Abstract
Coral reefs have been called the rainforests of the ocean and are one of the most diverse and important ecosystems on the planet. This paper will
explore how global warming has effected these fragile ecosystems. It will focus on the impact of increasing ocean temperatures on coral reefs.
Coral Reefs
Coral reefs exist globally from 30N to 30S latitude and have existed in some form on Earth for over 200 million years. Over 2500 species of coral have
been identified 1000 of which are reef building hard coral. Reefs are actually limestone structures produced by small animals called coral polyps.
These polyps contain unicellular plants (algae) called zooxanthellae in their tissue. They have a symbiotic ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
As more of the sun's energy is retained by increasing greenhouse gases, the earth's oceans are heating up. This can be seen by an increase in average
water temperature and warm water anomalies (water temperature over the average).
Coral Bleaching
Coral bleaching occurs when coral polyps are stressed. One form of stress on the coral is an increase in temperature. Often a one degree Celsius
elevation in the monthly mean maximum temperature is enough to cause bleaching. Bleaching is the process of the coral polyps expelling the
zooxanthallae. The polyps are left without any pigmentation and appear nearly transparent. All that can be seen is the white limestone skeleton. Corals
normally recover from this bleaching unless high ocean temperatures persist for too long a period or become too warm to permit recovery.
"The bleaching events reported prior to the 1980's were generally attributed to localized phenomena such as major storm events, sever tidal exposures,
sedimentation, rapid salinity changes, pollution or thermal shock. The events since 1980 have not been so easily explained. Numerous laboratory
studies have shown a direct relationship between bleaching and water temperature stress"..."Normally, he said (Dr. Suraphol), it would take at least 2–3
years for the bleached corals to start to recover." (ReefPage)

"if the temperature increase of one or two degrees Celsius, predicted by the Intergovernmental

Informative Essay On Coral Reefs
In the news reporters often talk about the effects of global warming as if they are anywhere from five to one–hundred years off in the future. Those
dangers like unpredictable and catastrophic weather patterns may not pose a major threat to human populations yet. However, for the inhabitants of
earth's coral reefs, the planet's constant warming immediately endangers thousands of species. While coral reefs occupy only a small fraction of the
ocean's floor, they account for roughly one fourth of the world's marine life. Coral itself, which in large part comprises coral reefs is made up of
thousands of tiny polyps that cling together and secrete a hard outer coating binding the individual polyps together (Jaap, 212–213). Generally coral
make up the vast majority of all reefs, but soft bodied organisms like anemones litter the sea bed as well. Coral reefs' seemingly eternal balance with
man is now in jeopardy, as small things like clownfish infertility and massive coral population loss begin to snowball, eventually leading to human
casualties. These vibrant structures made up of millions of years of development do not face potential threats from global warming. The existing threats
are imminent.
As mentioned, sea anemones accompany coral on the bottom of the earth's enormous seas. While this may be true, anatomically they are greatly
different from hard bodied corals. They cling to rocks on the seabed using the bottom of their bodies, Their pedal disc, which functions a lot

Coral Reefs And Coral Reef
Coral reefs in Belize have declined in abundance over the past decade. The reefs have experienced massive losses due to many local and global
stressors such as bleaching, disease, sewage, overfishing, climate change, and tourism damage. After Hurricane Iris in 2001, the coral reef in Belize
was left for the dead due to no growth. Direct impacts such as hurricanes are associated with the loss of architectural complexity of coral habitats. The
loss of this coral reef complication drives the decline in diversity and species richness. The widespread mortality of corals also increases the chance of
net reef erosion. These impacts are expected to amplify calcium carbonate dissolution with negative consequences for the entire reef framework ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Restoration projects strategically planned and mapped nursery sites and out–plant sites. This is the mostly widely used method for ecological recovery
of coral reefs which is also called coral gardening. Coral gardening framework has expanded to planting ten thousand rehabilitated corals on degraded
coral reefs in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic. This method is based on two factors: the collection of coral fragments within nurseries and the
out–planting of nursery grown corals onto ruined reefs (Lirman, 2016). First, engineers took a few factors into consideration – what corals exist, and
where, in proximity to the restoration sites. Next, donor corals must be mapped and scoped to the location of the nursery and out–plant sites in the
process. Past restoration projects in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic are quite different from coral gardening. They depended on the
transplantation of corals from a donor site to a damaged site (Lirman, 2016).Coral gardening techniques are a little different because this technique
uses a small amount of corals within ex situ or in situ nurseries prior to outplanting onto degraded reefs. The key to coral gardening is to maximize
coral productivity and survivorship. While corals are in the nursery, they can provide an expanding source of corals for ecological restoration. If
there's a high productivity at the nursery, they will no longer need to use more corals

Coral Growth
As mentioned several times above, coral growth is the key to a formation of any type of reef. Free–swimming coral larvae find homes on submerged
rocks or stable surfaces nearby the edges of land. Colonies of coral form as calcium carbonate skeletons accumulate and begin to be bounded by
surrounding corals. The polyps continues to secrete calcareous skeletons that form protective structures they will reside in. The protective structure is
like a sort of cup the polyp sits under, and new hard skeletons grow/forms as the coral polyp lifts and releases new calcium carbonate framework.
Coral reproduces asexually, the polyp buds and new, genetically identical coral polyps develop. The cycle continues and the coral spreads over a
relatively short period of time. The first formation of coral begins a platform for other new coral to settle and form. These skeletons make up a
majority of the reefs framework, however these are other small organisms that contribute to the formation. Fire corals, which are more closely related to
hydrozoans than actual corals, also deposit large amounts of calcium carbonate that add to the construction. Calcareous algae that live on the actual
coral, begin to deposit calcium carbonate within their tissue. As they die ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
They are by far the most numerous and diverse. Fish are critical to the health of a coral reef. The physical structure of a coral reef is very different from
that of the surrounding open ocean. Therefore, fish that reside in these reefs must have evolved many specialized traits that allow them to flourish in
that environment. Reef fish bodies differ in many ways from most other fishes. These animals dwell on coral reefs and therefore have evolved thin, flat
bodies that can easily be maneuvered to make the necessary sharp turns. Furthermore, the pectoral and pelvic fins positioning enhances the functionality
of the pancake–like

Dangers Of Coral Reefs
As many know, coral reefs are the most beautiful, structurally complicated and diverse marine ecosystems. Coral reefs do numerous amounts of things;
for example, they provide habitats for various types of living organisms, they protect shorelines from storm damage, and produce and sustain white
sandy beaches. Although coral reefs look feeble, they are actually strong and durable during certain conditions. Coral reefs are capable of recovering
from brutal storms and even volcanic eruptions as long as the dusts and sediments settle and are washed away. Before the reefs can begin their healing
process, the water condition needs to be clean and clear of all toxins. What's killing the coral reefs then? Sadly, human enterprise is simultaneously
destroying coral reefs directly and reducing their capacity to recover (Fujita,2003). First, we will talk about 3 major threats human enterprise has on the
coral reefs. Keep in mind that the threats mentioned are not the only threats out there. We shall then talk about evidence against some of these topics.
Last, we will talk about how these threats towards our coral reefs affect us humans; along with ways to change our environment.
One of the major threats of human enterprise is overfishing/harmful fishing. According to Fujita, "Overfishing is rampant in many coral reef countries,
driven by increasing demand and rising expense for coral reef fish which have become major status symbols in the fancy restaurants of Hong Kong and
other major

Coral Reef Impact
According to NOAA a coral reef is "a ridge of rock in the sea formed by the growth and deposit of coral." Stony coral polyps secrete a calcium
carbonate skeleton that over many years builds up to create the foundation which all coral lives on. These limestone remains are the building blocks
for coral colonies supporting millions of polyps which can weigh several tons. Having said that, coral reefs grow very slowly about 0.5cm–2cm per
year, meaning that all damage and death coral colonies experience will take a long time to repair. (NOAA 2)
Humans tendency to live near the ocean can have substantial negative consequences on the reef. Water quality decreases due to sewage leakage,
agricultural run–off and other types of groundwater pollution. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Disposing trash properly ensures it won't end up in the ocean, volunteering to help clean up a beach, some of the more simple, easy and effective ways
to help reefs. Nature.org claims fertilizer run–off is one of the main problems coral reefs face. The easy solution to this is to only use organic and
environmentally friendly soap and fertilizer so whatever does end up in the ocean doesn't have to hurt it. The many difficulties reefs face can be easily
solved if more people were educated about the importance of coral reefs. (Nature.org)
Coral Reefs are both biological diverse, an important economic resource. They protect shorelines as well as our island economy by gathering revenue
through both the tourist and fishing industry. Reefs provide homes for more creatures than any other marine environment. Many people have jobs
based around coral reefs such as fishermen, divers, restaurants and many others. Coral reefs are an investment everyone has a share in and one that
should be better

Coral Reef Essay
Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems that are held together by calcium carbonate structures secreted by corals. Reefs are built by colonies of
different species that are found in marine water. Reefs are home to a variety of creatures such as fish, urchins, sponges, sharks, turtles, jelly fish, and
thousands of other species and plants. Coral reefs are the most diverse of all marine eco systems and often called the rainforest of the sea. The total
area of the world's coral reefs amount to less then one quarter of 1% of the entire marine environment. Which is crazy because coral reefs are home
to 25% of all marine life on the planet. Coral reefs have survived tens of thousands of years of natural change, but major threats from mankind,
pollution, and climate change have caused this under water eco system to have serious threats in the future. Coral reefs are dying around the world.
Already human activity and climate change have destroyed a quarter of the world's coral reefs. The rest of the remaining coral reefs are in great
danger. While these beautiful and colorful underwater habitats flourish all around the world, there are many factors that can affect coral reefs and
cause devastating outcomes to marine life. Climate change, pollution, over fishing, and disease outbreaks each play a significant role to negative and
damaging effects of coral reefs. It is important to be more involved with this environmental issue to help take the right steps to saving the

Coral Reef Bahamas
The coral reef of the Bahamas is home to a large variety of different organisms including sponges, fish, anemones, sea stars, and crustaceans. They
all use the reef as a form of resource for food, protection from predators, or a place to live (Harborne et al. 2006). However, coral reefs all around the
world are in danger of depletion and destruction more now than ever (Richardson 1998). Damage to the coral reef is caused by a number of factors such
as increasing temperatures or reduction of sea pH (van Hooidonk et al. 2013). These factors lead to an increase in diseases (Kuta and Richardson
2002; Zvuloni et al. 2009; Patterson et al. 2002; Gil–Agudelo et al. 2004). There is a large range of different diseases affecting a variety of coral species
... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This occurs when there is partial or complete tissue degradation due to a pathogenic microbial consortium. Sulfur compounds and low oxygen
conditions are produced by a concentration of bacteria, which eventually kills of the coral (Viehman et al. 2006). This is the only disease to date
that can be successfully treated (NMFS 2001). Blotch, circular ring shaped lesions bordered by a faint yellow colouring distinguish Caribbean
Yellow Band Disease (Santavy et al. 1999; Cervino et al. 2001). The lesions are slow progressing growing in size by only mm or cm a each month
(Reeves 1994). The edges remain the yellow colour while the previously infected tissue will darken prior to the tissue being lost (Cervino et al.
2005). This disease is directly affecting important reef builders and therefore affecting the growth of the coral reef itself (NMFS 2001). Dark Spots
Disease is associated with the appearance of dark spots that may expand over time. The affected tissue will occasionally form depressions of the
surface of the coral and may differ depending on the season however the underlying skeleton will retain dark pigmentation even when tissue is gone
(Gil–Agudelo

What Is Coral Bleaching?
Known as the rainforest of the ocean, corals are beyond vital for our oceans and for our Earth as a whole. Corals supply a variety of sea life species
with food, shelter, and protection which affect our ecosystem including humans. However, these vital creatures are being negatively affected by natural
and human caused disasters. These disasters include, temperature and acidity fluctuations, run off, known as pollution, storms, and overfishing. These
disasters are what cause coral bleaching. The extent of coral bleaching is only increasing and we must preserve corals before they become extinct.
However, the coral that has already been bleached by these disasters are not completely hopeless. There is a possibility to reverse coral bleaching if
watched and treated carefully. Although having a plant like appearance, corals are marine invertebrates in the class Anthozoa of the phylumCnidaria.
There are ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
These animals live in compact colonies of many identical individual polyps which have soft–bodies. At their base is a hard, protective limestone
skeleton composed of calcium carbonate. The reef begins when a polyp attaches itself to a rock on the sea floor, then divides, or buds into thousands
of clones (National Geographic). The skeletal structure of hard corals are normally white, but due to zooxanthellae algae which reside within the soft
tissues of corals, corals obtain color. The most prolific corals live above 90 feet, close to the surface in tropical waters where the sun's rays can reach
the algae, noted by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). During the day the zooxanthellae, also known as algae,
photosynthesize. It is a mutualistic relationship between coral and algae. The algae benefits from photosynthesis because the nitrogen, phosphorous,
and carbon dioxide which is respired from the coral polyp is needed to grow. The coral itself benefits from the energy the algae provides. By night the
polyps can feed

Coral bleaching occurs when the microscopic plants (zooxanthellae) are expelled by rising ocean temperature. When there are no microscopic plants
such as zooxanthellae, the coral turns white and die. The studies show that throughout the worlds ocean, from the Florida Keys to the Great Barrier
Reef of the Australia have been evidence of unique coral bleaching caused by the rising of ocean temperature. In the early 1980s the coral bleaching
event has increased because of rapid increase of sea water temperature. Esther et al., investigates growth of Oculina patagonica at multiple
environmental conditions in the western Mediterranean Sea. The Oculina patagonia is stony coral specie which is found mostly in the Gulf of Mexico
and Caribbean. The coral was basically Atlantic origin which was transferred to Mediterranean Sea. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Esther et al., studied nine live species of O. patagonica in western Mediterranean Sea for the duration of about of about eighteen months. The nine
colonies were marked in the normal location by the nail on the rock at about 3–5m in February 2010. They took photography of every marked colony
by every 3 month (Esther et al., 2014). They categorized each marked colony into the six category that is unbleached, paler, the coral surface that is
0–20% bleached, 20–80% bleached coral surfaces, less than 50–80% bleached and less than 80 percent bleached (Esther et al., They calculated the
Bleaching index and the necrosis of the marked colonies of the O. patagonia to understand the coral bleaching in the specie(Esther et

The Effects Of Coral Bleaching On Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are unique and diverse underwater marine ecosystems that are found in many parts of the world. Today these tropical reefs suffer a great
deal of environmental stresses and are projected to decline over the next century due to global warming. In Grottoli's article: The cumulative impact of
annual coral bleaching can turn some coral species winners into losers, she elaborates on the effects of annual bleaching on three species of coral.
Grottoli took three species of coral such as O. Faveolata, P.asreoides P.divaricata and exposed the treatment groups to high temperatures of 31.5 В°C
for 15 days while control groups remained at a normal temperature of 30.6 В°C for the same amount of days. After treatment species were then
weighed and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Such high level of energy reserve is a good indication of over all health and ability to acclimate to harsh environments. An endosymbiont level is a
measurement of other beneficial cells that lives on the coral and forms a symbiotic relationship. Researchers recorded their results and then repeated
the experiment on the same corals a year later to see the effects of repeated high temperatures as a model for annual coral bleaching as a result of global
warming. Upon completion of the experiment Grottoli and her team of researchers noted, "yearly bleaching can dramatically alter the thermal
tolerance of corals" (Grottoli's, 2014). Interestingly enough, while the majority of the species decreased in all variables compared to controls,
P.divaricata increased in energy reserves at about 20–45% higher than controls after the second treatment. This increase in total energy reserve lead to a
reduction in the susceptibility to coral bleaching for that species. Thus, suggests that this species of coral can adapt to high temperatures after the first
event of bleaching occurs. Conversely, due to its low energy reserves and its low potential to increase endosymbiont levels, P.asreoides is not likely
acclimatize to higher temperatures thus resulting in low abundance of the species in future

What Is Coral Bleaching
Coral bleaching is a natural, but harmful phenomenon. As you read this report on coral bleaching, you will understand how and why this can and is
harming the ecosystem and our lives. Something you should know about coral bleaching is that it has and is happening as you are reading this. The
term coral bleaching doesn't sound that important and harmful, but it is and here is why.
Coral Bleaching is the cause of the warming temperatures in the oceans. Though many think that this is a good thing they are 100% wrong. Coral
bleaching is something that happens every day. The loss of color of the coral is the release of the algae (zooxanthellae) that lives and relies on the
coral. Without the algae on the coral, it becomes extremely vulnerable

Corals: Effects And Effects Of Coral Reefs
Corals are marine invertebrate species. They are found throughout all of the world's oceans. The largest coral reefs are found in clear, shallow oceans
where they thrive. According to the Coral Reef Alliance, there are hundreds of different species of coral (Brown, 1997). Corals are unique, each being
of different shape, size, and color. Corals commonly get mistaken for being part of the Plantae Kingdom. In actuality, thecoral is an animal referred to
as a polyp, part of the Animalia Kingdom belonging to the phylum Cnidaria (Brown 1997). Corals are often described as a colony of many polyps.
Coral reefs support extraordinary biodiversity and are essential habitats for a multitude of diverse aquatic species. There has been huge up rise in the
need to conserving coral reefs. The influence of bleaching has caused a ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
These species inhabit the Indo–Pacific Archipelago and eastern Pacific region; it is known as the most abundant types of fish on the reefs at this
location (Pratchett et al. 2004). There has been a significant decline in the butterfly fish due to bleaching. Butterfly fish rely on the coral reefs for food.
The fish were starving to death and declining in numbers due to failure in breeding caused by the destruction of reefs. The destruction of these reefs
was purely environmental, caused by high water temperatures. Butterfly fish sustain life by feeding on living tissues from scleractinian corals
(Pratchett et al. 2004), with the high–water temperatures and corals unable to sustain life, the butterfly fish started dying out. Scientists predicted that
the butterfly fish would migrate to another reef, but instead they stayed and essentially started starving to death (Pratchett et al. 2004). Coral bleaching
also impacts other aquatic animals that depend on them, such as invertebrates that rely on living coral for food and

Coral Reef Outline
I.Coral Reefs are made up of tiny corals. When a coral dies it leaves its skeleton behind. When other corals see the skeleton they stack up their
skeleton. Eventually, there will be a growing reef. Coral reefs have been forming around the world for 500 million years and are sadly starting to die
due to pollution.
II.Coral reefs have many reasons why they are good in your area. A. Coral Reefs provide habitats for large amounts of fish. B. Coral Reefs provide 30
billion dollars' worth of goods and services. C. Coral Reefs protect coastlines from powerful waves, flooding, and coastal eroding 1. In some regions of
the world, people depend on the reefs for protection and food 2. A well managed square kilometer ofcoral reef could yield ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Coral polyps are primarily responsible for reef–building B. Not every coral is able to make reefs. Although they do leave their skeletons behind C.
Most stony corals have very small polyps, averaging 1 to 3mm. 1. They can form huge reefs if there is enough of them 2. they don't have a sufficient
amount to create a reef 3.stony corals in colonies can grow huge and weigh tons
IV.There are very cool and weird characteristics about corals A. Deep
–sea corals occur in deeper organic water B. Corals provide algae with a protected
environment C. The algae produce oxygen for the corals 1. Deep–sea corals occur eat plankton and organic matter 2. Corals give the algae the
compounds they need to photosynthesize 6
V.There are many benefits of the coral population A. Coral Reefs provide a lot of food for the animals and humans B. Coral reefs provide jobs for
people. C. Coral Reefs protect the coastline from storms 1. Some jobs are security and guiding people around the reefs
VI.Pollution is starting to kill most of the reefs around the world A. There is enough plastic in the reefs to go to the moon and halfway back. B. The
pollution might grow by 40% in the next seven

Coral Ocean Trade
Summary:
The international trade in corals today mainly focuses on live corals for the marine reef aquarium trade. The purpose of this study is to understand the
overall trends over time (in this instance, 21 years between 1990–2010) as coral species enter the trade and become more commercially popular.
Another reason was to assess the impact that increased aquaculture production of corals has on the trade, and predict how changes in the trade of live
corals may impact coral reef ecosystems. Trade increased over 8% per year between 1990 to mid–2000s, and then decreased by 9% each year. The
aquarium and trade for corals is associated with positive and negative impacts to ecosystems and societies. The timing of the peak and decline varies
among

Coral reefs have one of the highest biodiversity of animals in one ecosystem than any others on the entire planet. Coral reefs are colorful habitats in
the ocean, some of which are not too far from the shore. They are made from skeletons of calcium carbonate and animals, which make a rocky
substance known as coral. Coral reefs are a home to many different types of creatures that live under the sea, some are unknown to a majority of the
human species. "Coral reefs are sometimes referred to as the 'rainforest of the sea' because they teem with life and abound in diversity" (Agardy).
Sadly, due to the many factors of global warming, these natural treasures are dying from what is called "bleaching". Coral bleaching happens from the
warming temperature ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Humans cause many of the signs that global warming is occurring daily towards different parts of the world. Climate change is the main factor towards
the rising sea levels, the temperature of the water, and coral bleaching. "The 2014 reports of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change describe coral reefs as the most vulnerable marine ecosystem on Earth, stressing that they have very limited capacity to adapt to rising water
temperatures and acidification" (Dormer). Many of the coral reefs and the sea creatures that habitat there cannot adapt to the temperature of the water,
so many of the creatures will migrate somewhere more suitable. Fish are an important detail towards coral reefs due to the fact that they protect them
from algae and other bacteria that can harm the rocky substance. By changing the commonwealth of humans, the money can be spent to establish more
ways to support the environment instead of harming it by making things the society does not need in order to live life. The government could fund
more money to environment helping organizations, and ending the pessimistic ideas that the society believes in. Commonwealth is an easy solution
that can be completed only if humans realizes how much that their precious planet is being harmed by their

Corals : The Negative Effects Of Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are underwater forests that act as natural protective barriers in the coastal regions. They are also habitats to some of the most fragile and
diverse ecosystems on earth. Sixteen percent of all the coral reefs in the world were wiped out in only one year. The warm air and the high
temperatures at the surface of the ocean that are brought about by climate change have a great impact on the corals. They alter the communities of coral
reefs by causing corals to bleach. The chemistry of the ocean also gets altered. This has a great impact on the corals themselves as well as other
organisms that use the corals as their habitat. Climate change has had a negative impact on coral reefs in coastal regions in all the parts of the world
(Jones, 2017). A rise in the global temperatures, increase in the intensity of storms and an increase in the acidity of ocean water as a result of increased
levels of carbon dioxide has caused the bleaching and mass death of corals. Corals are highly sensitive even to slight temperature and so the
warmer temperatures that result from climate change cause stress to the corals. If the temperature of the water remains higher than usual for a
long period of time, the zooxanthellae on which the corals depend for food leave the tissues. The corals become white and unhealthy and are said
to be bleached. Corals that are bleached are very weak and are not able to combat diseases. Cases of massive coral bleaching around the globe were
observed in 1998 (Jones, 2017). Some Pacific Islands experience coral bleaching in summer, there are however cases of intensive bleaching in this
area. For instance, in 1994, 2002 and 2003, there was more than normal bleaching in the National Park of American Samoa (Jones, 2017). If climate
change goes on uncontrolled, cases of coral bleaching will become more common that they are now, this means that the health of coral reefs will
continue to decline. Climate change causes an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide which dissolves in the ocean and leads to ocean acidification. One
third of all the carbon dioxide that is produced due to human activities has been absorbed by the oceans since 1800 (Haw, 2013). Half of all carbon
dioxide produced from the

Kharg Coral Reef
This study showed that Kharg and Lark Island have been severely affected by human activities. Considerable differences were observed in the
concentrations of surface sediments collected from the both Lark and Kharg coral reefs. The chemical contamination of Kharg Island was higher than
what were observed in Lark Island suggesting that exploration, exploitation and crude oil activities (such as oil transportation especially at the Kharg
Island) and military activities (especially at the Lark Island) and runoff near the coast, may be important sources of organic pollutants. For examined
analytes, Kharg Island can be considered polluted relative to other systems values. Kharg coral reef is as an ecological protection area, which has been
designed

Fight For Coral Reefs
Coral Reefs are distinctive and unique to the areas around them, boasting a variety and biodiversity of species that can rival any terrestrial area.
Although the reefs only cover 0.2 percent of the earth's oceanic floor, an estimated one million species found around coral reefs (NASA)–around 25%
of our marine species (Coral Reef Alliance). Beyond science, reefs generate an estimated $375 billion each year (Bunting). Coral reefs benefit the
aquarium, fishing, and ecotourism industries, creating at least 500 million jobs (Chasing Coral).
Media campaigns have historically been essential to coral reef protection (Robin Lloyd). In 1967, the Great Barrier Reef (GBR or the Reef) was
subject to a fourteen–year campaign demanding government officials ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This was not possible at this level of participation with "Save the Reef." To further illustrate this, the Australian Parliament received 13,000 signatures
in 1968 from the "Save the Reef" campaign; the "Fight for the Reef" campaign, by comparison, has 234,518 members for their website as of 2015 and
an online petition of 81,000 signature was delivered to the World Heritage Committee Meeting in 2013 (Foxwell–Norton). Partner organizations such
as the World Wildlife Fund has 1.6 million members (Foxwell–Norton). Participants in the campaign can range anywhere from the local communities
interested in protecting their livelihoods, scientists and professionals who seek undiscovered endeavors, and lobbying organizations hoping to engage
individuals with their government (Foxwell–Norton).
Working alongside mainstream politics, media, industries, and celebrities, the "Fight for Our Reef" campaign causes "interventions and interruptions"
to capture attention and spread their message. Examples include Simon Baker, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ben and Jerry's (Foxwell–Norton; Fight for Our
Reef). As discussed, the "Fight for Our Reef" Campaign has greater control of how it is framed than past campaigns. Rather than relying on journalist
and media professionals, the modern "Fight for Our Reef" campaign

Coral Reefs Essay
Coral reefs are very diverse ecosystems. They are "the rainforest of the sea". Coral reefs can be very big or very small. The Great Barrier Reef
(Australia) is 1,600 miles long and 40 miles wide. They are very important for our ocean, they provide food and home for many of the fish in the
ocean. For some fish, coral reefs are the only viable food source or shelter they have. Coral reefs are very important.
Coral reefs are made by individual coral that join together to form a coral colony. Each coral is .06 to .5 inches in size. There is a tissue that joins the
coral together, called coenosarc.
For coral reefs to live they need certain thing. Coral reefs need water that is warm, shallow, and in tropical climates. They have to have enough ... Show
Reefs can live decades to centuries. This is only when there is little to no damage done to the reefs. There are different kinds of things that can
damage the reefs. One of these things is when the weather changes, from cold to hot or hot to cold, it changes the sea level and temperature of it.
When sea level and temperature changes it damages the coral reefs. Another thing that can harm the coral reefs are seaweed. Seaweed is a threat to
corals because they grow much faster, than the seaweed starts to take over the coral reef. When there is too much nutrients in the sea, the seaweed
grows much faster than usual and it take over the reef much faster. Seaweed have a chemical that damages the coral, and kills them also.
The most significant threat to coral reefs is human interaction. People use coral reefs for a lot of things. They provide us with jobs, coral reefs bring
in 30 billion dollars a year, the most they have ever brought in was 170 billion dollars in a year. Even though they help us so much we harm them in
many different ways. Humans overfish, we pollute the ocean, and we change the ocean chemistry. These things kill the coral.
Coral reefs also play a big part in other sea animals lives.Coral reefs make up about 1% of the ocean floor, that may seem small but, that about the size
of France! One third of all marine animals live in a coral reef for some of their life. For

Coral Reefs Essay
Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are arguably the world's most beautiful habitats. Coral reefs have been called the rainforests of the oceans, because of the rich diversity of
life they support. Scientists have not yet finished counting the thousands of different species of plants and animals that use or live in the coral reef.
There are three types of coral reefs: fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and atolls. Fringing reefs are located close to shore, separated from land by only
shallow water. Barrier reefs lie farther offshore, separated from land by lagoons more than ten meters deep. Atolls, on the other hand, are formed far
offshore and they make a ring–shaped reef that close a circular lagoon. Coral reefs are the largest biological ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This in turns effects the entire ecosystem of the ocean. Pollution by humans have directly or indirectly caused the death of 5%–10% of the world's
living reefs, according to marine biologist Clive Wilkinson of the Australian Institute of Marine Science. This estimate didn't take in global warming
and ozone depletion as a factor. The pollution is caused by fisheries, oil spills, deforestation, tourists, and even reckless divers. The problems which are
getting even bigger is the problem of deforestation and reckless divers.
In the watershed of Bacuit Bay in the Philippines, deforestation increased erosion into the bay by more that 200 times.(Futurists, 1995) One of the
biggest threats to coral reefs are tourists. Last year alone over 1.2 million tourists visited the Great Barrier Reef.
(Star–Bulletin, 1995) The tourists are not only fisherman and devoted divers they are also scientists who wanted to see the enormous reef. Every year
the numbers of visitors increase by 10%. It has brought many resorts to the area who also want to get into fun and making a little money in the $1
billion business. Even the hotels and the motels pollute the reefs by their drainage and sewage pipes. This is causing a huge problem in coastal tourism
which is the world's fastest growing industry, worth over $7 billion annually in the Caribbean.(Star–Bulletin, 1995) Marine Scientists are really worried
of how much longer the reef can survive with all these visitors to the

Coral Away Essay
The play Away by Michael Gow shoes the character of Coral to be in need of change in her distinctive world. Discuss how this applies to the play.
Michael Gow's play "Away" presents Coral as a character that is in urgent need to undergo profound change. At the introduction of the play, Coral is
introduced to the audience as an emotionally unstable and isolated character. Through the use of stage directions, "Coral doesn't respond", it is clear
that Coral is in her own distinctive world and alienated from society unable to deal with the real world. However, at the conclusion of the play, Coral is
presented to be no longer absorbed in her own grief by being able to finally accept her son's death and express her emotions with her husband, ... Show
At the beginning of the scene, we view Coral engaging in conversation with Leonie, another resident at the Hotel. The dialogue reveals a
conversation that is unstable and awkward. Coral starts to become overpowering and questioning by asking, "Isn't hard making contact with other
people in this kind of place? Everyone's enjoying themselves but, I don't know, I feel it's a bit forced, do you feel that? Are you really enjoying
yourself? Or are you only pretending. To please your husband, perhaps?" The stage directions allow the audience to see that Leonie is "almost in
tears" and asks "Why are you staring like that?" Coral ignores her questions and remarks and continues to question the woman. Corals language is
clichГ© and proves she is still not coping. Coral starts to scare Leonie where she says "Let me go, please, I want to go" reinforcing Corals inability
to make contact and communicate with other people and her lack of social skills. Rather than talking to the woman she starts to override the
conversation and become overwhelming revealing her isolation and alienation. Coral continues to ignore the woman's pleads to leave and Leonie
begins to "struggle" and starts "crying" sobbing, "I want to go in. I'm hungry. Let me go". This shows Coral is unable to concentrate on her own
issues and decides to force herself upon someone else's problems in order to take away her own pain.
Coral then meets another important character named Rick. Rick uses short sentences and

Coral Bleaching And Its Impact On Coral Reef Ecosystems
Abstract
This paper reviews what we currently know about coral bleaching and its impact on coral reef ecosystems. It analyses the scientific evidence linking
coral bleaching to climate change and other anthropogenic activities. It also focuses on the importance of ecosystem services provided by coral reefs,
and the socio–economic and environmental impacts of coral bleaching. The paper concludes with a set of recommendations and mitigation strategies
to slow down the rate of coral bleaching, thus allowing coral reefs to adapt and develop resilience in the face of climate change.
Introduction
a.Coral Reefs
All corals are composed of thousands of individual animals called polyps. Each polyp has a mouth, which is the opening of its ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
(Andrew, Glynn, & Riegl, 2008) This loss of zooxanthellae or the reduction in their pigment concentration from the host is referred to as coral
bleaching. Bleaching turns the host coral white, as the skeleton becomes visible through the coral's transparent tissue. Bleached corals can survive
without their counterparts for weeks or months. However, as this symbiosis is vital for reef building, the absence of it significantly reduces coral
growth and reproductive ability, eventually leading to reef mortality. (Knowlton, 2001)
Causes of Coral Bleaching
Coral reefs have suffered degradation due to anthropogenic activities for decades. The direct and indirect effects of overfishing and pollution from
agriculture and land development have been the major drivers of coral reef decline over the past two centuries. More importantly, these threats to coral
reefs have been compounded and exacerbated by superimposed impacts of global climate change, such as rising sea temperature and level, and
increased ocean acidification. (T. P. Hughes, 2003)
Coral reefs are found in coastal tropical environments, typically between latitudes 25oS and 25oN, and can tolerate water temperatures ranging from
18oC to 30oC. (Hoegh–Guldberg O. , 1999) Most literature reviewed highlights elevated SST, particularly during repeated ENSO events, as the most
common cause of mass coral bleaching episodes. These stressed, overheated corals expel most of their

Dissolution Of Coral Reefs
The dissolution of coral reefs is a growing consequence of human activities. While efforts toward regulation of anthropogenic factors and of ocean
acidification project small feats of improvement, time is essential to determine whether or not reduction of these factors correlate with restoration of
coral reefs. Coral transplantation as a direct solution to this coral reef dissolution can thus be explored, as it effectively aims to return coral ecosystems
by _______.
Human activity such as overfishing, oil disposal, sewage, and chemical pollution attribute only a portion of the disruption of diverse coral reef
ecosystems. Sedimentation present problem because it buries the coral reefs underneath rocky layers and thereby hinders their growth. ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
In a 12–year experiment observing transplanted coral and its parent coral, mortality rates proved to be the result of "environmental (extrinsic) and/or
organismal (intrinsic genotypic or molecular–level function) factors" as opposed to "transplant/reference status or experimental methodology"
(Garrison et al. 2012). A shown in Image 1, the corals' mortality rate is independent from the method of coral transplantation. Ultimately, success has
been shown in coral transplantation. Additionally, this means of active restoration "requires very little training, meaning that moving and reattaching
Elkhorn coral fragments can be done by recreational divers" (Wiley–Blackwell, 2010). One of the most enticing qualities of this method is its fiscal
convenience, as "cost of all materials, use of a boat and scuba, and scientist salary totaled US$21 per transplant" (Garrison et al.

How Long Is Coral Bleaching Of Coral Reefs?
Usually the first thing a person thinks of when someone talks about coral reefs is the Great Barrier Reef or the movie "Finding Nemo" and how
beautiful it is, with its vibrant corals and colorful fish swimming about. Coral reefs are vital to the world. Even though they only cover .1% of the
ocean floor, they are home to 25% of all marine life. Home to many species of fish and acting as a nursery for little fish and also provide protection
until they are big enough to venture out and protect themselves. It is a place that has a complex food chain. The coral reef also acts as a food resource
for higher food chain predators like sharks and whales. The quick decline of the coral reefs is becoming an increasingly alarming situation. Coral reefs
like the ones in the Caribbean are facing collapse and perhaps extinction. A recent survey shows that only 8% of the Caribbean coral reefs are
showing live coral cover, compared to in the 1970s ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Less than 10% of the Caribbean reefs are showing live coral cover. (Harvey) Coral reefs can only tolerate a narrow range of temperatures. If the
water around them warms by just a couple degrees and lasts more than a week, they are likely to bleach. There are a lot of causes of coral bleaching:
change in ocean temperature, overexposure to sunlight, runoff and pollution, and extreme low tides. The main one is the rising ocean temperature.
When there is a storm, runoff water could carry pollutants and toxic to the ocean water, causing coral that lives off–shore to bleach. Shallow coral reefs
could be exposed to a lot of sunlight, causing them to bleach. And when there is low tide, coral reefs are exposed to the air, causing them to bleach.
Overall, coral is very fragile and they have not mutated or evolved to improve this yet. Corals have a symbiotic relationship with the algae
zooxanthellae that live in their tissue. The algae is not the primary food source for them, but also gives them their

Coral Reef Deforestation
Where have all the coral reefs gone? Reef deforestation has been occurring around the globe at an alarming rate and is affecting us more than we
think. These beautiful reefs are a diverse marine version of a tropical rainforest and is an ecosystem that homes thousands of species. Coral reefs grow
in oceans that are clear and clean and they need the sun for photosynthesis. Unfortunately, this underwater paradise is becoming less and less of an
attraction due to the destruction of them. Places such as Mexico, Australia and Florida are having shortages of income due to the lack of coral reefs.
As well as the fact that industries aren't getting a steady income, marine animals are suffering too. When coral reefs are destroyed, all the marine life
that the coral reef supported now doesn't have a habitat. Also, without the marine life and the beautiful coral reefs, tourists are not able to go visit what
once was a ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This is mostly accidental human interactions with the reefs that causes certain parts to break. Tourists do not notify anyone that the coral reef was
damaged which can make it go unknown. Many tourism areas for coral reefs can be warned about the issues and taught how to safely handle reefs
while still getting the experience. However, some areas are careless and don't know the importance of educating tourists so that the reefs can be
enjoyed for many years later. The last major issue that affects coral reefs is pollution and the overuse of pesticides/fertilizers. You may wonder why
pesticides/fertilizers can affect coral reefs but they do. The extra pesticides get absorbed into groundwater or end up in surface runoff which leads
right into lakes, rivers or oceans. These pesticides get "eaten" by algae and enhances their growth, causing the corals to be suffocated. These pesticides
are being consumed by marine life that is located near the reefs. This can result in marine animals dying or getting

Frogspawn Coral Research Paper
Human beings are always searching for ways to reach a peaceful and tranquil environment. One great way to reach this is to have a hobby. Most will
find that the hobby of saltwater aquariums can be very helpful to distress; however, it can also be useful as a profitable investment through the
harvesting of coral. In doing so, many gain the skill of patience.
There are many different varieties of coral, each varying in structure. There are Four classes of species of coral, each has its own method of harvesting.
One species of coral is LPS and SPS, which means large–polyp stoney and small–polyp stoney. Aquarists write articles informing people about the
structure of frogspawn coral, " they are LPS corals that develop multiple branching heads connected to a single trunk like structure" (Gosnell, 82).
Frogspawn is a ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Before harvesting, one must wear safety goggles and gloves, to protect on from the toxins shot from the coral. If the toxin enters into an open orifice
or cut, one must call medical personnel immediately. To begin the procedure of harvesting, one will need bone cutters, frag plugs, super glue gel, pipet,
plastic container, and Coral R–X. First, one must take a specimen of Frogspawn coral out of the water of the tank. Second, one must take the bone
cutters and cut an inch and a half to two inches from the poly to the trunk like structure of the frogspawn coral. He or she must make sure it is a
clean cut. If it is not a clean cut the individual can trim the base with the bone cutters. Third, one must take the frag plug, super glue gel, pipet and
the harvested coral fragment. One must take the super glue gel and add a dollop of it to the center of the frag plug. Next, One must take the frag plug
and place the dollop of super glue to the trunk like structure of the frogspawn coral. He or she must hold pressure, while using the pipet to shoot
saltwater onto the drying super glue gel. This hardens the hold. Now

Importance Of Coral Reefs
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 on
Helpwriting.net ...
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, sea 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 to

Coral Reefs In Florida
Coral Reefs
In the United States, Florida is the only state that has coral reefs that form near the coast. It runs along the east coast from Stuart, located in Martin
County, to the Dry Tortugas which are located in the Gulf of Mexico. Along the chain of the Florida Keys is where most of the livingcoral reefs are also
located in the Everglades. " Coral reef development occurs only in areas with specific environmental characteristics: a solid structure for attachment,
relatively warm water temperatures, clear waters low in phosphate and moderate wave action to disperse wastes and bring oxygen and brings oxygen
and plankton to the reef." (www.dep.state.fl.us)
Coral reefs play an essential part in the ecosystem. They support the biodiversity

Coral Reef Importance
Sustainable Biomes
What Are Coral Reefs?
Livescience.com states that:
"Coral reefs are expansive underwater structures which are built from stony corals that secrete calcium carbonate to create their hard exoskeleton to
protect their soft bodies. These corals consist of polyps which are abnormal growths within the coral that cluster together to form groups. Coral reefs
make up one of the most significant marine ecosystems in the world today." (https://www.livescience.com/40276–coral–reefs.html )
Why Are Coral Reefs Important?
Alongside being one of the largest marine ecosystems in the world, coral reefs are significant for many reasons, most of which fall under protection.
But what do they protect and how do they protect it?
Coral reefs provide coastal protection as they stop and lower wave action and erosion in shallow shores which prevents damage to any nearby properties
Coral reefs protect the productive wetlands that lie along the coast as well as the highly productive wetlands that are around ports and harbours
Human recreation such as fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving are all provided by the coral reefs. The human recreation that is provided by the coral
reefs benefit the people who work in the tourism industry as they earn more money
Our earth's coral reefs are the spiritual and cultural centre for many people. For example, the indigenous aborigines of Australia are spiritually
connected to the coral reefs due to their traditional ways of life. The

The Coral Reef Biomes : The Environmental Effects Of Coral...
The ocean is two–thirds of our planet a vast blue landscape home to many biomes which according to Boyce Thorne–Miller "(ecosystem types)
corresponding to sets of environmental conditions that vary with depth, latitude, and longitude" (16). However, the ocean and its biomes is under
attack from the changing environment. We can see this through coral reef biomes as they make their home near the shores. Through coral reefs we can
view the effects that these changes have on the ocean through how the coral reef biome is affected. Humans are a danger to the coral reefs and the
wildlife that resides in the biome. The pollution being released into the environment is poisoning the coral and causes death and malformation to the
wildlife. The ocean is changing due to global warming which is causing a change in the temperature and rising water levels leading to a change in
the stabile areas coral can survive. The increasing acidification of the ocean is causing the coral reefs to die. I will be looking at the effects these
issues cause to coral reefs biomes and the ocean to see the similarities in how they affect both.
Humans fish to survive and in doing so they will target specific species leading to overfishing. Sound pollution is causing issues with the wildlife of the
ocean in how they communicate and move around. With human interaction comes trash which gets left in the ocean and affects many different species.
Overfishing affects a biome by reducing the amount of species. According to the National Ocean Service (NOAA) the effects of overfishing in a
coral reef biome leads to a limited amount of wildlife to reproduce. The ones that do reproduce will be smaller as larger wildlife which spawn more
offspring are targeted and removed from the biome causing lower overall birth. This causes more algae to be in the environment which can lead to
nutrient pollution due to a lack of wildlife that cleans the area of algae. The World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) found that the effects of overfishing
on the ocean also caused imbalances in the populations of wildlife such as tuna and the disruption on herbivores by overfishing such as scallops lead
to algae bloom in the ocean as well.
Sound is how much of the ocean communicates with

Oxybenzone Effects On Corals
Recently, the scientific community has investigated the effects of chemicals found in sunscreen, specifically oxybenzone, on coral health. The
properties of this chemical impede coral reproduction through endocrine disruption and planulae dissolution as well as promote viral infections in the
symbiotic dinoflagellate found in coral. The effects of oxybenzone potentially boost coral bleaching and harm population dynamics, however before
concluding what level of aggression is needed to combat oxybenzone, additional research is needed to improve our overall understanding of its
impacts on specific coral species and various geographic locations.
Oxybenzone contains endocrine disrupting properties that interfere with the chemical signals responsible ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Some locations, such as U.S. Virgin Islands and Hawaii, have concentrations of oxybenzone much higher than the quantities tested on corals, where
other locations have much lower or even undetectable amounts (Downs, 2013). There are still many uncertainties about oxybenzone, for example if
certain coral species are more sensitive to it than others or if it effects spawning and brooding corals differently. More detailed research regarding
toxicological impacts of oxybenzone on corals is imperative for determining what actions are necessary to protect coral health. For now, a critical first
step to minimizing the potential impacts includes informing the public about the environmental consequences of sunscreen use and suggesting
alternate forms of UV protection such as rash guards, wetsuits, or sun protective clothing (McCoshum, 2016). If additional research substantiates these
concerns, there may come a point for extensive and costly policies to manage the quantity of oxybenzone released into the

The Endangerment Of Coral Reefs

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