All about coral reefs [2]

Why does the coral reef need protection?

Coral reefs are suffering globally.

• Scientists report that 30% are already damaged. Corals grow only in warm tropical waters ideally between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit.
  Although climatic and geological changes affect them, human activities have had far greater consequences over the past decade.
• The first generation to discover scuba may be the last to enjoy coral reefs, if we don't get involved.
• Corals are damaged by a variety of physical impacts that include anchor damage, accidental boat groundings, and diver/snorkeler touching, standing and dragging equipment. Propellors tear up shallow seagrasses.
• Marine debris, especially plastics, damage marinelife and smother corals. Turtles mistake plastic bags for their favorite food, jellyfish.
  Water quality declines when pollution discharges from boars or coastal areas reduce visibility and oxygen and increase chlorophyll levels, causing a proliferation of new coral diseases and massive algal blooms.
• Coral bleaching occurs when sea temperatures rise or other stresses occur and the corals expel their symbiotic algae.
  Siltation from coastal development and beach renourishment smothers fragile corals.
• Agricultural run-off that contains pesticides and fertilizers add toxins and nutrients to reefs that require nutrients-free waters to thrive.
• Overdevelopment and lack of sewage and stormwater infrastructure in coastal areas is a leading source of damage to reefs.
• Outright habitat loss occurs when coral and live rock is harvested for construction or the aquarium/curio trade.
• Destructive fishing techniques and overharvesting of fish and tropical marinelife is a worldwide problem.

There are already so many factors that contribute to the decline in the number of coral reefs. It is still not to late to stop destroying coral reefs and preserve this natural underwater wonder. Help to save the reefs. For more tips, scroll down.

References: http://www.reefrelief.org