Coral reefs

Coral Reefs

Coral Reefs (pronunciation: /ˈkɔːrəl riːfs/) are diverse underwater ecosystems held together by calcium carbonate structures secreted by corals.

Etymology

The term "coral" comes from the Greek word "korallion," while "reef" is derived from the Middle English word "ref," meaning a ridge or shelf.

Definition

Coral reefs are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Most coral reefs are built from stony corals, which in turn consist of polyps that cluster in groups. The polyps belong to a group of animals known as Cnidaria, which also includes sea anemones and jellyfish.

Types of Coral Reefs

There are three types of coral reefs: Fringing Reefs, Barrier Reefs, and Atolls. Fringing reefs are located close to shore, barrier reefs are further out and separated from the land by a lagoon, and atolls are circular or oval, with a central lagoon.

Importance of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are some of the most diverse and valuable ecosystems on Earth. They provide protection for many species of fish and invertebrates, and provide numerous benefits to humans, including food, tourism, and coastal protection.

Threats to Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are facing numerous threats, including Climate Change, overfishing, and pollution. These threats can lead to coral bleaching, where the corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white.

Related Terms

• Coral Bleaching
• Cnidaria
• Fringing Reefs
• Barrier Reefs
• Atolls
• Climate Change

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Coral reefs
• Wikipedia's article - Coral reefs

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