Protecting Our Coastlines
Coral ecosystems work as underwater storm barriers. Shah explains in his article "Coral Reefs" that when waves come toward coastlines or islands, coral structures absorb some of their energy and slow them down, or dissipate them. This is especially helpful during hurricanes or tropical storms, as they propagate tremendous energy. Reefs can help reduce the amount of damage taken on coastlines, and helps protect coastal property. Often coastlines are very industrialized and have large populations, so reefs are very important in creating a less dangerous environment for people who live in these areas.
 |
| Wave Action |
Reefs also provide a wide variety of food for the fishing industry and jobs through the tourism industry. Coral ecosystems provide nursery grounds for baby fish, and about one-fourth of all the fish in the ocean call coral their home. Without reefs, the fishing industry would lose a large part of its current revenue! Tourism also relies on the fish through restaurants and snorkelers or scuba divers who want to see the biodiversity of these structures. The healthier the reef, the more money and jobs that help sustain our global economy.
 |
| Grouper, Popular Fish to Eat |
Because of the great biodiversity of coral reefs, many different organisms and plants thrive in the areas, especially ones that are not common around the world. Often this gives way to the possibility of certain plants and organisms to possess medicinal properties that are useful to humans. NOAA's article on Coral Reef Medicine suggests that reefs could be the "Medicine Cabinets of the 21st Century", which some organisms having properties that can ease labor pains, treat cancer, fight heart disease, and get rid of viral infections. One drug derived from reefs is called AZT, found in reef sponges, which helps treat people with HIV infections. Also, cancer treatment has become a huge research project in coral ecosystems as possibles cures are being tested through marine organisms and plants. If we let the reefs die off, we lose the chance to find a treatment to these diseases that affect millions around the globe.
Coral is much more than just one of the natural wonders of the world. These ecosystems work with humans and give back to us! Just as common courtesy, shouldn't we treat it with respect?
 |
| Plant Life |
