Coral reef
Coral reef
Coral reef (/ˈkɔːrəl riːf/) is a diverse underwater ecosystem characterized by reef-building corals.
Etymology
The term "coral" comes from the Greek word "korallion," which means "hard skeleton." The word "reef" is derived from the Middle English word "ref," meaning "rock or ridge."
Definition
Coral reefs are structures made of calcium carbonate secreted by corals. Corals are colonies of tiny living 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.
Types of Coral Reefs
There are three main types of coral reefs: fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and atolls. Fringing reefs are located close to shore, barrier reefs are further offshore with a lagoon between the reef and the land, 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 benefits to humans in the form of food, protection of shorelines, jobs based on tourism, and medicines.
Threats to Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are facing numerous threats including climate change, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices. These threats lead to coral bleaching, disease, and ultimately the death of the reef.
Related Terms
- Coral bleaching: A phenomenon in which corals lose their color due to stress.
- Polyp: The individual organism in a coral colony.
- Zooxanthellae: Symbiotic algae that live within the coral polyps and provide nutrients.
- Calcium carbonate: The substance that corals secrete to form their hard skeleton.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Coral reef
- Wikipedia's article - Coral reef
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