Coral reefs are underwater structures made from calcium carbonate secreted by corals. Coral reefs are colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Most coral reefs are built from stony corals, which in turn consist of polyps that cluster in groups. The polyps belong to a group of animals known as Cnidaria, which also includes sea anemones and jellyfish. Unlike sea anemones, coral polyps secrete hard carbonate exoskeletons which support and protect their bodies. Reefs grow best in warm, shallow, clear, sunny and agitated waters. |
Often called "rainforests of the sea", coral reefs form some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. They occupy less than 0.1% of the world's ocean surface, about half the area of France, yet they provide a home for 25% of all marine species, including fish, mollusks, worms, crustaceans, echinoderms, sponges, tunicates and other cnidarians. |
Paradoxically, coral reefs flourish even though they are surrounded by ocean waters that provide few nutrients. They are most commonly found at shallow depths in tropical waters, but deep water and cold water corals also exist on smaller scales in other areas. |
Coral reefs deliver ecosystem services to tourism, fisheries and shoreline protection. The annual global economic value of coral reefs is estimated between US$ 29.8-375 billion. However, coral reefs are fragile ecosystems, partly because they are very sensitive to water temperature.
|
They are under threat from climate change, oceanic acidification, blast fishing, cyanide fishing for aquarium fish, overuse of reef resources, and harmful land-use practices, including urban and agricultural runoff and water pollution, which can harm reefs by encouraging excess algal growth. |
16 Gorgeous Sights in Georgia Everyone Should See
Here are 16 sights that prove how beautiful Georgian nature is, and anyone thinking of visiting should definitely keep these in mind.
Leap Into the Ocean With This Freediving Compilation
Freediving is quite a dangerous sport to attempt but is sure reveals some of the most stunning views, compiled in this video.
There's a Beautiful World Under There...
There is a secret world underneath the ocean waves. It is incredibly large and incredibly deep. But more importantly, it is filled to to the brim with life in every color or shape imaginable, and some that are not. Enjoy this vivacious and beautiful
Let's Take a Gorgeous Tour Under the Sea
It's a different world down there, under the waves. A world that gently moves with the undercurrents of the sea, a world full of colors and strange shapes. A mostly silent world. Enjoy this beautiful photo series, displaying some of the lovely sights
You Won't See Animals Like This Anywhere But The Internet
These animals were born with genetic mutations that make them stunning and rare wonders of nature.
INTERACTIVE: 26 of the Cutest & Prettiest Animal Posts!
From pandas to bunnies, from tigers to hedgehogs, this interactive collection promises animal lovers a terrific time!
The Flowers & Blossoms of Fruit Trees Are Achingly Pretty
There are few things in this world that are quite as magical as a flowering or blossoming fruit tree. Take a look at 15 stunning images of fruit tree flowers.
The Crystal Waters of Fiji Are Pure Underwater Heaven
There are few waters more beautiful than the crystal clear waters of Fiji.
The Adorable Babies of 10 of the Most Feared Predators
Although we'd prefer not to come close to predatory beasts, their babies are so cute and hard to resist!
Capturing Africa's Wild Beauty: 17 Mesmerizing Pics
Enjoy this photographic journey of African wildlife.
Dr. Hodges - The Vet That Cures Exotic Cute Pets
In this video, we meet Monty, the pet axolotl. It's his first visit to the Vet!
Sloths: Masters of Slow-Motion Evolution
The sloth is much more interesting than you ever realized.
Beautiful: How Your Dog Sees You Vs. How You See Yourself
Although we can feel down in the dumps about ourselves sometimes, our dogs will always keep their faith in us and see us as their heroes.
Amazing! These Birds Fly as High as a Commercial Plane!
Ever wondered what the highest flying birds in the world are? Well, you don't have to wonder anymore!
Do Big Cats Like Catnip? - Find Out!
We try giving catnip to 5 different types of big cats!
If You Want to See Some Breathtaking Beauty, Come In Here...
Check out the astonishing winning panoramic images from the 2023 EPSON International Pano Awards.
In Pictures: Northern Lights Photographer of the Year 2022
Behold the best images from the Northern lights photographer of the year 2022.
Nature inFocus Photography Awards: 17 Incredible Winners
Check out the incredible winners of the 2023 Nature inFocus Photography Awards.
If You Love Dogs, You'll Love Learning This About Them..
I love dogs, and so I love learning about them. These facts have really surprised me.
14 Incredible Sights from the Mighty Andes
We have curated a stunning collection of photos that showcase one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth.
These Colorful Birds are Among the Most Vibrant!
These birds are so bright and beautiful that it's actually hard to believe they're real. Take a look at these 19 kaleidoscopic bird species for yourself.
18 Breathtaking Photos Depict Nature as Heaven on Earth
These photos enable us to appreciate the beauty in mother nature and all that she has to offer.
Weird Science: 12 Phenomena That Scientists Can’t Explain
Scientists think they're got the world covered but so many mysteries remain. Here are 12 bizarre phenomena that even scientists can't explain.
These Beautiful Endangered Butterflies are a Joy to Behold
These exotic butterflies are extremly rare and placed high atop the endangered species list, but will fill your eyes with color and wonder.
This Amusing Video Explains How Cats Land on Their Feet!
Have you ever wondered just how cats manage to safely land on their feet every time they fall or are dropped? Watch this video and wonder no more!
These Creatures Are So Scary You'll Be Happy They're Extinct
Once you read more about these extinct animals - you'll be happy you won't have to see them in real life.
15 Flowers that Smell So Good, Your Garden Must Have Them
Your ultimate guide to selecting flowers, plants and herbs for an aromatic outdoor space.
Nature After Dark: Exploring 8 Nocturnal Animals
Let us take you up close and personal with some of the most unusual nocturnal animals of our world.
Expect to See Lots of Butterflies with These Flowers
Here are 15 flowers you should add to your outdoor space in the hope of seeing more beautiful butterflies.
This Flower Gets Its Name From the Animal It Resembles
These beautiful orchids are not man made, although they may seem like it to us.
7 Fascinating Natural Phenomena Science Can’t Explain
From the Great Blue Hole in Belize to the Sailing Stones in CA, this video will introduce you to 7 natural phenomena science isn't fully able to explain.
Beautiful! This Nimble Bird is a Magical Sight to Watch
Both strong and beautiful the hummingbird is a magical sight to watch. Look through this beautiful tribute to the nimble bird.
20 Ways to Turn that Blank Wall into a Vertical Garden
Gardening can be done anywhere and sometimes you just don't have land. That hasn't stopped these creative people from growing plants in all sorts of spaces.
8 Animals That Hibernate During Winter
We have all heard how bears hibernate during the winters. Here are 8 more animals that protect themselves from the cold by hibernating.
The Pronking Dance of the Antelopes - Lovely!
The sprinbok like to find a place of rain, and after it passes, they celebrate the fresh grass with... pronking, a very beautiful, very strange dance!
Who Needs Superheroes When We Have These Dogs?
Take a look at the extraordinary stories of five remarkable dogs who save lives and stop crimes.
The Colors of Nature Are Truly Spectacular
Sometimes, those that differ from the crowd shine the brightest, as these unique brightly-colored animals prove.
These Beautiful Animal Stories Will Touch Your Heart
Animals are an infinite source of inspiration for all of us, and these touching stories will give you renewed hope in life and maybe even make you shed a tear.
INTERACTIVE: Click to See the English Tide Come and Go...
This interactive photo presentation lets you click on images taken by Michael Marten, and see the English tide coming in and going out.
Is There a More Beautiful Creature Than the Proud Peacock?
Some may argue that the peacock is the most beautiful bird in the world. The colors of the peacock is where nature truly shines...
These Flowers Capture a Starry Night On Their Petals
These wonderful flowers appear to have the night sky captured in their very petals. View some stunning photos of them and learn more about them.
The Owl: True and Funny Facts!
This hilarious video explores the natural world, this time - the owl, a magnificent creature that still sounds really funny in this true facts video
Witness the Magical Views of Norway's Northern Islands
The amazing place you are about to see in this video is Svalbard - an archipelago that is in the northernmost part of the entire kingdom of Norway.
These Pictures Perfectly Capture the Magic of Fall
Enjoy this beautiful collection of fall pictures.
This is What Pure Love Looks Like in the Animal Kingdom
This heart-warming photo series proves that the love between a parent and child is universal.
WATCH: 12 Stunning Underwater Landscapes On Video
Live under the waves is fascinating and beautiful, but it's only recently that we've been able to capture it in all its glory. View these 12 stunning videos.
Tourists From All Over Flock to See this Beautiful Island
Wouldn't you want to visit this beautiful island, filled with nothing but flowers?