12. Predation
Crown-of-thorns starfish are voracious
predators that can wipe out large areas of
coral reef. An individual can consume up to 6
square meters of living reef per year.
21. Some facts about coral reefs
• Fact: Coral reefs are among the oldest
ecosystems on Earth.
• Fact: Coral reefs are the largest living
structure on the planet.
• Fact: Although coral reefs cover less than
1% of the Earth’s surface, they are home
to 25% of all marine fish species.
• Fact: 500 million people rely on coral
reefs for their food and livelihoods.
22. • Fact: Without the existence of coral reefs,
parts of Florida would be under water.
• Fact: Coral reefs have been used in the
treatment of cancer, HIV, cardiovascular
diseases and ulcers.
• Fact: Corals' porous limestone skeletons
have been used for human bone grafts.
• Fact: It is estimated that coral reefs
provide $375 billion per year around the
world in goods and services.
• Fact: If the present rate of destruction
continues, 70% of the world's coral reefs
will be destroyed by the year 2050.
Notas do Editor
Immediately recognised by its brilliant colour pattern of deep maroon to black, yellow and red pigment. Has two large dorsal fins and a ventral keel. Reaches a maximum length of 100mm. Found in Australia, Arafura Sea and Philippines.
The pygmy seahorse is undoubtedly one of the most well camouflaged species in the oceans and in coral reefs.
Premnas biaculeatus
Fact: Coral reefs are among the oldest ecosystems on Earth.
Fact: Coral reefs are the largest living structure on the planet.
Fact: Although coral reefs cover less than 1% of the Earth’s surface, they are home to 25% of all marine fish species.
Fact: 500 million people rely on coral reefs for their food and livelihoods.
Fact: Coral reefs form natural barriers that protect nearby shorelines from the eroding forces of the sea, thereby protecting coastal dwellings, agricultural land and beaches.
Fact: Without the existence of coral reefs, parts of Florida would be under water.
Fact: Coral reefs have been used in the treatment of cancer, HIV, cardiovascular diseases and ulcers.
Fact: Corals' porous limestone skeletons have been used for human bone grafts.
Fact: It is estimated that coral reefs provide $375 billion per year around the world in goods and services.
Fact: If the present rate of destruction continues, 70% of the world's coral reefs will be destroyed by the year 2050.