One of the most precious and diversified ecosystems on Earth is the coral reef. More than 25% of all marine species are found there, despite their making up less than 1% of the ocean floor. In addition to serving as a habitat for a vast number of marine animals, they shield coastlines from storms, promote tourism, and provide as a source of food and medicine. But what is the actual value of coral?
Coral’s worth varies depending on how it is used. Coral is highly coveted in the jewelry industry for its distinctive colors and patterns. Particularly sought-after coral colors like red and pink can sell for up to $500 per gram. However, due of the harm it does to coral reefs and the ecosystems they sustain, coral harvesting for jewelry is prohibited in many nations, including the United States.
Coral is also utilized in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is said to offer therapeutic benefits. Coral calcium supplements are also promoted as a natural cure for a variety of illnesses. These claims, however, are not well supported by science, and coral harvesting for therapeutic purposes is also subject to stringent regulations.
Coral is also used in the aquarium industry. Depending on their beauty and uniqueness, live coral specimens can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The trade in live coral for aquariums, however, has the potential to harm delicate ecosystems and disperse disease, which could have a detrimental effect on coral reefs.
Despite their importance, coral reefs are under risk due to a number of issues, such as overfishing, pollution, harmful fishing methods, and climate change. Since rising sea temperatures and ocean acidity are widely causing coral bleaching and death, climate change in particular poses a serious threat to coral reefs. More than 50% of the world’s coral reefs have already been lost or badly harmed, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
What area of a coral reef is therefore alive? The coral polyps, which are tiny creatures that release calcium carbonate to form the hard, stony structures that make up the reef, are what make a coral reef alive. The polyps consume plankton and other microscopic organisms while living inside the coral’s skeleton.
What makes coral reefs so crucial? For a number of reasons, coral reefs are crucial. They assist the fishing and tourism sectors, protect coasts from storms and erosion, and serve as habitat for countless of marine animals. They provide innovative products, including pharmaceuticals, as well.
What is the name of the biggest barrier reef, to finish? The Great Barrier Reef, which extends more than 1,400 miles off the coast of Australia, is the biggest barrier reef in the world. More than 1,500 different fish species and 600 different kinds of coral can be found there. Unfortunately, the Great Barrier Reef is under danger from climate change and other human activity, much like many other coral reefs across the world.
The significance of coral is substantial, yet it is impossible to emphasize how crucial an ecosystem it is. To ensure that future generations can enjoy and profit from coral reefs and the marine life they support, protection measures must be taken.