Reef

Reef

A reef is a bar of rock, sand, coral or similar material, lying beneath the surface of water. Many reefs result from natural, abiotic processes—deposition of sand, wave erosion planning down rock outcrops, and other natural processes—but the best known reefs are the coral reefs of tropical waters developed through biotic processes dominated by corals and calcareous algae.

Types of reefs

There are several types of reefs, including:

• Coral reefs: These are the most well-known type of reef and are formed by the accumulation of coral skeletons and living coral polyps. Coral reefs are found in tropical oceans near the equator.

• Artificial reefs: These are human-made reefs, often created to promote marine life in areas with a generally featureless bottom, to control erosion, block ship passage, block the use of trawling nets, or improve surfing.

• Rock reefs: These are natural reefs made up of rocks. They are often found in the ocean, but can also be found in lakes and rivers.

• Sandbars: These are temporary or permanent ridges of sand, gravel or other material at or near the water's surface.

Ecology

Reefs are often home to a diverse array of species. The biodiversity on a reef can be higher than in any other marine ecosystem, making them critical habitats for marine life. Reefs also provide important services to humans, including food, protection of shorelines, jobs based on tourism, and even medicines.

Threats to reefs

Reefs face many threats, including climate change, overfishing, disease, and pollution. These threats can lead to the destruction of reefs, which can have serious impacts on the species that rely on them and the humans who benefit from them.

Conservation

Efforts are being made to conserve reefs and the species that live on them. These efforts include the establishment of marine protected areas, the reduction of pollution, and the development of sustainable fishing practices.

See also

• Coral bleaching
• Coral reef fish
• Coral reef protection
• Coral triangle
• Great Barrier Reef

External links

• Reef Environmental Education Foundation
• Reef Check

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