What are the causes and effects of coral reef destruction?
They are sedimentation, eutrophication and pollution. All these factors individually and/or in combination cause stress to corals. Deforestation, construction and coastal development, dredging and other developmental activities can increase the sediment load in coastal waters and cause damage to coral reef ecosystem.
Why is the destruction of coral reefs important?
Coral reefs provide an important ecosystem for life underwater, protect coastal areas by reducing the power of waves hitting the coast, and provide a crucial source of income for millions of people. More than 500 million people worldwide depend on reefs for food, jobs and coastal defence.
How do coral reefs affect humans?
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 is killing the coral reefs?
Pollution, overfishing, destructive fishing practices using dynamite or cyanide, collecting live corals for the aquarium market, mining coral for building materials, and a warming climate are some of the many ways that people damage reefs all around the world every day.
How much longer will coral reefs last?
Nearly All Coral Reefs Will Disappear Over The Next 20 Years, Scientists Say. Over the next 20 years, scientists estimate about 70 to 90% of all coral reefs will disappear primarily as a result of warming ocean waters, ocean acidity, and pollution.
Where is the world’s richest reef?
Coral reefs off the Philippines and Indonesia are among the richest–and most endangered–marine habitats in the world, according a new global ranking.
Which coral reefs are in danger?
Kingman Reef in Hawaii Known as invasive species, these creatures are a major threat to the world’s coral reefs. In Hawaii, the Kingman Reef is suffering from invasive algae species that are blotting out various forms of life and turning corals a dark green or black.
Are there any healthy coral reefs?
Healthy corals are a haven for the diverse marine life that inhabits Indonesia. Below the water, Indonesia has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. The coral health is evident at any dive site. Take Raja Ampat’s Gorgonian Passage, for example.
Where is the healthiest coral reef in the world?
Best Coral Reefs in the World – Top 5
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia. Raja Ampat is located at the intersection of the Indian and Pacific Ocean, right in the heart of the prestigious Coral Triangle.
- Solomon Islands.
- Papua New Guinea.
- FIJI.
- Red sea.
