Coral Reefs

Paper Summary:

This paper begins by providing a brief definition of coral reefs and their main characteristics. It then discusses the different ecological problems -natural and man-caused which are slowly destroying the reefs. These include eutrophication - when the algae which is in a symbiotic relationship with the coral overgrows the coral using the increased nutrient content of the water and in the process destroys the coral. It also includes over fishing, coral bleaching and tourism. The paper finally examines the various laws and acts which have been passed to try and avert this phenomenon.

From the Paper:

"Coral reefs are widely known as the "rain forests of the ocean". Providing a habitat to innumerable varieties of marine species the coral reefs are an important part of the marine ecosystem. Occupying an estimated 4,00,000 square miles (0.17%) of the ocean surface the coral reefs sustain more than 25% of all marine life. [Washington College of Law]. However uncontrolled fishing, tourism and other environmentally destabilizing activities of man have seriously endangered the coral reefs. This situation is alarming considering the fact that damage to the coral ecosystem has serious implications for all the countless species that depend on it for their survival. Let us explore the ecological effects of coral reef damage and the environmental laws, which protect them in a little detail."

More papers on Coral Reefs:

• Analytical Essay # 126157 : "Coral Reefs and Functioning"
• Descriptive Essay # 106327 : "Coral Reefs"
• Term Paper # 120170 : "Coral Reefs"
• Descriptive Essay # 2668 : "Different Kinds of Coral Reefs"

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