Why are corals important?

Coral reefs provide a great deal of ecosystem services that provide both cultural and socioeconomic values, estimating a yearly benefit of $400 billion globally. Coral reefs provide an important resource for fisheries, coastal communities, and recreational businesses.

 

Biodiversity: Healthy coral reefs are home to more than 4,000 species of fish, 700 species of corals, and thousands of other animals and plants. These ecosystems are incredibly vibrant and are one of the most complex on the planet. Without these coral reefs, this incredible biodiversity would cease to exist. 

Food and Fishing: Corals provide a home for various species of fish, from juveniles to adults. These fish and other marine animals are an important source of protein for up to a billion people globally. Corals are extremely important in both commercial and local fisheries, as they offer protection for fish species and provide nutrients and food for the growth of juvenile fish. Without these ecosystems, fish populations would decline and fishing industries that harvest these fish would feel the impacts.

Tourism: Coral reefs have become increasingly popular vacation destinations worldwide. Scuba divers and snorkelers have flocked to see these ecosystems and the ocean life that surrounds them. Healthy reef communities contribute to local economies through tourism. Coastal areas rely on scuba diving tours, fishing trips, hotels and restaurants to provide jobs and contribute economically. 

Coastal Protection: Globally, half a billion people are estimated to live within 100 kilometers (or 62 miles) of a coral reef. Coral reefs are a valuable resource for these coastal communities as they act as natural barriers and help protect these coastal properties. They buffer shorelines from wave action, prevent erosion and property damage of coastal development areas, and protect ports and harbors. Many beaches and various coastal buildings would not be standing if it weren't for coral reefs. It has been shown that coastal areas with healthy coral reefs suffered less damage when hit by hurricanes or tsunamis compared to areas without reefs. This causes concern as we continue to lose our reefs worldwide. With climate change comes the threat of severe storms, and without these natural barriers, shorelines will become increasingly vulnerable. 

 

Medicine: Lastly, animals living within coral reefs produce chemical compounds that have been used to create a variety of medicines that have helped treat such as heart disease, skin cancer, ulcers, lymphoma, as well as reduce inflammation and kill viruses. Scientists are still discovering these compounds and have yet to fully understand how to use them. These animals may provide important medicines to help cure cancers and treat a variety of diseases. 

Without corals, we would lose an incredible amount of ecosystem services. Imagine going on vacation and not being able to spend time on the beach, or sticking your head underwater and seeing nothing but sand. Imagine going to a seafood restaurant that doesn't serve seafood. Let's not make that a reality, but instead help protect these incredibly important ecosystems. Donating to research like mine will help scientists understand how corals can survive climate change, and what we can do help conserve and protect them globally so that we can continue to appreciate their services.