Coral Reefs, Rainforest of the Sea
- theoceansnarrative
- Aug 19, 2021
- 3 min read
Our last two blogs about marine ecosystems were mangroves and seagrass meadows. Today’s blog is the next ecosystem connected to the other two, coral reefs. As mentioned in the other blogs these ecosystems all work together as they are at most times spatially close to one another. I am a little biased here though because coral reefs are my favorite ecosystem. You’ll learn today where coral reefs are found, what animals live in this ecosystem, why they are important, and ways we can help.
Where are coral reefs found?
Most corals are found in the tropics (Cancer and Capricorn), which is 23.5° north and south of the equator. Typically you find corals in shallow water where it is warmer and sunnier yet recently scientists have found coral reefs in the deep sea as well. While many believe corals are like rocks in the ocean it is in fact a living animals. Corals are an animal that relies on the help of symbiotic algae that help them with photosynthesis. They are in the same phylum as jellyfish but they are sessile (they stay in one place with the exception of when they are free-swimming larvae). Coral reefs are made up of coral polyps, which are individuals.
What animals live in coral reefs
Coral reefs are one of the most biodiverse ecosystems; they are also referred to as the rainforest of the sea. There is definitely a reason for that name, you can find a variety of species in coral reefs. Many may make coral reefs their home, others find food here, and others may live here at one stage of their development. You can find a variety of fish there, for example, angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and so many more. You can also find marine mammals such as different species of dolphins and whales. You can also find sea turtles in this ecosystem.
Why are they important?
As I mentioned before there are so many different species that stay in coral reefs for shelter, food, or both. But did you know that 25% of all marine life depends on coral reefs? That does not include humans and bird species that depend on them as well. It is estimated that more than 500 million people worldwide depend on coral reefs for food, income, coastal protection, and so much more. Coral reefs are also important for medicinal purposes, as they are finding research that could help with cancer treatments. Coral reefs also help us from spending so much more money on coastal damage when strong storms or waves occur. Coral reefs are important to local communities with eco-tourism that provides revenue. Yet as many may know coral reefs are declining due to human impact from habitat loss, runoff, and climate change. The coral reefs for example in Florida are being lost to a disease that may be associated with sewage waste dumped into the ocean. In other instances coral reefs are being lost to increase temperature, this affects algae that help corals, which leads to coral bleaching. Coral bleaching is when the algae are expelled and the corals turn white. Coral reefs need help.
It's easy for me to give you the textbook answer as to why we need to protect coral reefs. Yet on a personal level, I can't imagine a world without them. Coral reefs are unlike anything I've ever experienced. It's a place of life and a world without just doesn't make sense. So the realization that we can help this ecosystem and the ocean is so important. So I want to share with you ways that we can team up to make a difference.
Ways we can help
There are several ways we can help coral reefs. We can help by reducing your carbon footprint. This may look like carpooling or planning trips to the store. This may look like reducing your plastic consumption. You can also help coral reefs by demanding change with your local government by asking for better change. We can also make a difference by learning about coral reefs and learning what challenges they are facing. We can also help by supporting organizations and groups that are fighting to protect coral reefs. I’ll leave a list below.
Friends let me know what was new to you about coral reefs? Or what are ways you are going to make a difference?
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