Coral reefs form through a process where coral polyps, tiny organisms related to sea anemones, secrete calcium carbonate to create hard exoskeletons. Over time, these exoskeletons accumulate and form the structure of the coral reef. Additionally, symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae live within the coral polyps and provide them with nutrients through photosynthesis, aiding in the growth and development of the reef. The combined efforts of coral growth and accumulation of exoskeletons over many years lead to the formation of vast and diverse coral reefs in tropical marine environments.
