Coral reefs are the most biodiverse habitats in the oceans, and like the trees of a rainforest, the coral structures provide the structure of the ecosystem, within which other plants and animals live.

While plants and some bacteria can make their ... jeopardizing the living coral that makes up reefs. Covered with long, venomous spikes, the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) is ...

Within the structure of the coral reefs, members of almost every phyla of plants and animals live and die, adding particles and organic material to the sediment, and contributing to the efficient ...

humans have practiced selective breeding to enhance desirable traits in plants and animals. But now, its potential for nature conservation is being considered, particularly for coral reefs.

The ridges in coral reefs act as barriers and can reduce wave energy by up to 97%, providing crucial protection from threats such as tsunamis. They help protect areas such as mangrove forests and ...

Like tropical rainforests, coral reefs provide life and habitats for an array of plants and animals. The underwater seascape may lack flocks of exotic birds and vine-covered trees, but one’s ...

Without healthy coral reefs, the islands wouldn’t even exist ... corals are technically considered tiny animals since, unlike ...

A cutting-edge mission is extending a lifeline for the Florida Keys’ precious coral reefs amid efforts to restore and save<a ...

provides a timely reminder of the importance of coral reefs as well as human impact on underwater ecosystems. This coral (pictured below) would have provided sanctuary for thousands of sea creatures ...

Often referred to as “rainforests of the sea,” coral reefs are perhaps the greatest, most vibrant expressions of ocean life. Yet due to global warming, already-delicate coral reefs throughout the ...