Admin Table of Contents
Why are coral reefs in water?
Because of strict environmental restrictions, coral reefs generally are confined to tropical and semi-tropical waters. The water must also be clear so that a maximum amount of light penetrates it. This is because most reef-building corals contain photosynthetic algae, called zooxanthellae, which live in their tissues.
Why is coral reef called as the most rich and diverse ecosystem on earth?
The variety of species living on a coral reef is greater than in any other shallow-water marine ecosystem, making reefs one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. The biodiversity of reefs and the habitat reefs provide for other species are also the source of other benefits.
Why are coral reefs only found in tropical water?
Corals are found across the world’s ocean, in both shallow and deep water, but reef-building corals are only found in shallow tropical and subtropical waters. This is because the algae found in their tissues need light for photosynthesis and they prefer water temperatures between 70-85°F (22-29°C).
Why do corals grow best in clear water?
Reef corals require clear water so that sunlight can reach their algal cells for photosynthesis. For this reason they are generally found only in waters with small amounts of suspended material, or water of low turbidity and low productivity.
Why is the coral reef important?
Coral reefs protect coastlines from storms and erosion, provide jobs for local communities, and offer opportunities for recreation. They are also are a source of food and new medicines. Over half a billion people depend on reefs for food, income, and protection.
What makes up a coral reef?
A coral reef is made of thin layers of calcium carbonate Coral polyps form a living mat over a calcium carbonate skeleton. These colonies consist of millions of polyps that grow on top of the limestone remains of former colonies, eventually forming massive reefs.
Why is a coral reef an ecosystem?
Coral reefs are one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on earth, rivaled only by tropical rain forests. Competition for resources such as food, space and sunlight are some of the primary factors in determining the abundances and diversity of organisms on a reef.
Why are coral reefs important geography?
Coral reefs are one of the most important ecosystems in the world, and have been called ‘the rainforests of the sea’ owing to the diverse range of plants and animals that they support. Although they cover less than 0.1% of the world’s ocean surface, they provide a home for at least 25% of all marine species.
Why are coral reefs so important give at least two reasons?
Why are coral reefs called the rainforests of the ocean?
Coral reefs are often called the “tropical rainforests of the sea” for their astounding richness of life. Due to their structural complexity, corals are one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth, providing important services to mankind including fisheries, coastal protection, medicines, recreation, and tourism.
How do coral reefs benefit the environment?
Coral reefs protect coastlines from storms and erosion, provide jobs for local communities, and offer opportunities for recreation. They are also are a source of food and new medicines.
Why are coral reefs and mangroves important?
Together the coral reef and mangrove ecosystems form a barrier that protects shorelines from the destructive forces of wind, waves and driven debris. These living structures decrease the erosion and physical damage that can often impose significant economic and environmental costs on coastal communities.