….and 10 simple ways you can help them thrive
Coral reefs are easily one of the most interesting life forms on our planet. The colourful ecosystems can be found all over the world but many are sadly at risk of destruction due to a number of easily avoidable issues. Check out below our 10 cool coral facts and the easy steps you can take to ensure coral reefs can continue to thrive.
10 surprising facts about coral reefs
A quarter of all marine species live on coral reefs
Coral reefs make up a fraction of the ocean – less than 1% – but they provide a home to around 25% of all the world’s marine life. Over 4,000 different species of fish rely on coral reefs!
Corals are animals, not plants
A common misconception is that corals are plants or rocks but, in actual fact, they are animals. There are hard and soft varieties of coral which live together in large groups called colonies.
Half a billion people rely on coral reefs for food
Coral reefs provide food for a variety of fish which, in turn, provide food for humans. It’s estimated that around 500 million people in the world consume the fish found on coral reefs.
Coral reefs need sunlight to grow…
Clear and shallow water is where coral reefs thrive: they generally grow best at depths shallower than 70 metres where sunlight can easily reach.
...but too much heat can be harmful
Corals and algae have a symbiotic relationship but if the ocean gets too warm, corals expel their algae which causes them to turn white - a process known as bleaching. In a desperate attempt to survive increasing ocean temperatures, some corals have been shown to emit vibrant colours, a phenomenon which has led to the global Glowing campaign.
They act as a barrier during storms
Coral reefs play an important role in protecting coastal communities from storms and water surges. They act as a buffer and are able to slow down water flow as well as prevent coastal erosion.
Coral reefs clean the water they’re in
You won’t find coral reefs living in murky water! Many corals and sponges feed on particles found in the ocean which, in turn, leaves the water incredibly clear.
They are a huge driver of tourism
In a pre COVID-19 world, around 71 million people each year visited coral reefs on holiday. This tourism is hugely important to local economies; particularly in lesser-known destinations which rely on international tourism.
Coral reefs date back around 240 million years
It’s been recorded that coral reefs began forming as far back as 240 million years ago! Established coral reefs today are between 5,000 - 10,000 years old, although some individual corals may only live a couple of years.
They don’t just live in warm waters
Although more commonly associated with tropical waters, coral reefs have been found in temperatures as low as 4ºC and depths of 2,000 metres. These deep sea corals don’t rely on photosynthesis to survive like their warm-water counterparts; instead, they feed solely on food particles from the surrounding water.
10 simple ways you can help coral reefs thrive
Book your dive trip with a Green Fins member
It’s important to plan ahead and book a dive or snorkel trip with a reputable organisation. All members of the Green Fins initiative (which we coordinate internationally in partnership with the UN Environment Programme) adhere to the Green Fins Code of Conduct: 15 environmental practices designed to protect corals and marine life.
Create a sustainable packing list
Ahead of your trip, think about what you can pack that will avoid damaging coral reefs with harsh chemicals, such as reef-safe shampoos, soaps and sunscreens. You can also reduce the need for single-use plastic items by packing your own reusable water bottle and cutlery.
Do not step on coral reefs
It may seem obvious but it’s incredibly important not to step on or touch coral reefs. It’s crucial to remember that corals are animals and human interaction can damage or even kill them.
Never litter
Litter is one of the biggest polluters of the ocean and is harmful to all marine species, big and small. If your dive operator does not have a bin on board, make sure to take all litter home with you so it doesn't accidentally end up being blown into the ocean where it might harm coral reefs or be digested by fish.
Do not stir the sediment
Stirring the sediment can smother corals – meaning they are unable to photosynthesise – and cause disease to spread amongst the reef. Be mindful of your fins and avoid disrupting the sand.
Make a donation to Reef-World
We’re dedicated to getting more and more dive and snorkel operators on board our Green Fins initiative. A donation of £30 would fund a meeting with up to 20 people where we can increase their knowledge and capacity to help prevent coral reef damage.
Do not feed the fish
Feeding fish disrupts the natural ecosystem: fed fish are more vulnerable to predators and more likely to leave their nests empty. Admire fish from afar and leave them to feed their natural food source.
Never buy coral souvenirs
Coral and other marine life souvenirs have been taken from their natural habitat and disrupted the environment. Even empty shells play an important part in the ecosystem so please don’t take anything from the ocean or coral reefs (dead or alive). Support local tourism and purchase sustainable gifts instead.
Leave a positive review!
If your dive operator was environmentally conscious, leave a review of your experience online or tip your guide. Your review will help others find out about your positive experience and make them more likely to also book with an operator which is mindful of its impact on marine life and coral reefs.
Always remember to ‘take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but bubbles’
Scuba diving is an unforgettable experience: enjoy your time under water and leave behind an environment that others can enjoy too.
For more tips and advice, and to find a coral reef-friendly dive operator, check out the Green Fins website: www.greenfins.net.