One of the world’s most stunning and diversified ecosystems is the coral reef. Numerous marine species can be found there, and they also offer vital services to the human population, such as food and protection from storm surges. Sadly, a number of human actions, such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change, are also a threat to coral reefs. Harvesting live coral for the aquarium industry, jewelry, and other decorative objects is one of these activities. But should coral harvesting be allowed or should it be prohibited?
This query does not have an easy solution. On the one hand, it is possible to harvest coral sustainably without endangering the reef or its people. In contrast to gathering corals from the wild, several coral farms have been built to cultivate them in a controlled environment. These farms can help local people by generating revenue while also easing the strain on wild coral species. A few coral species are also invasive, but these can be harvested without endangering the reef environment.
But not every coral harvesting follows sustainable practices. Sometimes reefs that are already under stress from other human activity or protected areas are used to unlawfully harvest coral. Since live coral serves as a habitat and a source of food for numerous other species, this might have a disastrous effect on the reef ecosystem. Additionally, the removal of live coral from the reef may harm the reef itself, further degrading the ecosystem.
So, is coral harvesting permitted? The harvesting method is what determines the answer. It may be a viable activity if carried out sustainably and with concern for the wellbeing of the reef ecosystem. However, it need to be stopped if it’s carried out unlawfully or irresponsibly.
Another question is how much a coral costs. Depending on the species and the size of the item, coral prices can vary greatly. While bigger coral pieces used in aquariums or as decorative items might cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, smaller pieces used in jewelry may only cost a few dollars.
What type of coral is the simplest to maintain is another query that is raised. Soft corals, such polyps and mushrooms, are frequently thought to be the easiest type of coral to maintain in an aquarium. These corals are often tough and tolerant of a variety of tank conditions.
How is coral farming carried out? Coral farming is the practice of producing live coral fragments in a controlled setting. Until they are big enough to be moved onto the reef, the corals are normally grown in nurseries. Without endangering the wild coral population, this can offer a reliable source of live coral for the aquarium trade and other uses.
What ultimately transpires when corals bleach? When coral bleaches, it loses the symbiotic algae that are a part of its tissue, turning it white or pale. When the coral is exposed to stressors like extreme heat, pollution, or salinity fluctuations, this can happen. Coral may recover if the stressor is removed, but if it persists for too long, the coral may perish. Coral bleaching poses a severe threat to coral reefs because it may cause many marine creatures to lose their homes and sources of food.
As a result, even while coral harvesting can be done sustainably and can benefit the neighborhood, it should be done taking the health of the reef ecosystem into account. Illegal or unsustainable harvesting should be prohibited since it can have a terrible effect on the reef and its people. Coral reefs need also be protected from other dangers like overfishing, pollution, and climate change in order to guarantee their continued viability for future generations.