Coral reef- A coral reef is an underwater habitat that is ch | Dr. B R AMBEDKAR IAS ACADEMY
Coral reef-
A coral reef is an underwater habitat that is characterised by corals that construct reefs. Coral polyp colonies are bound together by calcium carbonate to build reefs. The majority of coral reefs are made up of stony corals, which have polyps that cluster together.
Not all corals, however, form reefs; those that do are known as hermatypic corals or ‘hard corals.’
A polyp is a single coral that feeds on the calcium carbonate exoskeletons of its forefathers, which have been built up over hundreds of thousands of years. These coral reefs progressively grow and become a gigantic part of the marine ecosystem over decades.
Importance of Coral reef-
The health of a reef tells us a lot about the health of an ocean. Many fish and ocean animals rely on the protection of the healthy, living reef for spawning season. The reef also provides more than protection; it supplies a rich, thriving food chain, too. From plankton and algae to the largest sea creatures, the reef ecosystem is a significant life support system.
Coral reefs defend coasts from storms and erosion, offer jobs for local communities, provide habitat and shelter for a wide range of marine species, and contribute nitrogen and other critical elements to marine food chains. They aid in carbon and nitrogen fixation, as well as nutrient recycling, and provide recreational activities. They are also a source of new medications and food. Reefs provide food, money, and protection to about half a billion people.
Threats to coral reef ecosystems
The major contributor to the discoloration of coral reefs is huge population influx (Unprecedented tourism activity threatens coral reefs). Apart from this Rapid industrialization (Industrial pollution, plastic waste, untreated sewage immersed in ocean bodies), Distortion in natural food cycle due to human-interference, Rising sea temperatures,Habitat loss and Oil-spills are also major factors.
