Coral reefs are significant in marine ecosystems in the following ways ¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁵:
- Biodiversity: Coral reefs support a quarter of all marine species, including 4,000 fish species, 800 coral species and many other animals and plants, making them the most biodiverse ecosystem in the ocean.
- Coastal protection: Coral reefs act as a natural barrier protecting coastal beaches, cities and communities from waves, storms and floods.
- Food source: Coral reefs are a significant source of food for people living near the reefs, contributing to a quarter of the total fish catch and providing food resources for millions of people.
- Medicine: Many coral reef organisms produce chemical compounds used in human medicines, such as treatments for cardiovascular diseases, skin cancer, ulcers and leukemia.
- Tourism: Coral reefs generate billions of dollars through tourism, supporting local and global economies and providing jobs in over 100 countries worldwide.
- Ecological importance: Coral reefs have shown remarkable resilience and ability to recover from coral bleaching and mass mortality events if protected from human stressors.
