Coral Reefs

These structures, formed by colonies of coral polyps bound together by calcium carbonate, are among the largest biological creations on Earth. Found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, coral reefs are renowned for their rich biodiversity, despite occupying only about 0.1% of the Earth's surface. These ecosystems support a wide array of marine life and are considered the “tropical rainforests of the sea.”

Coral Reefs by the Numbers

Coral reefs exert outsized economic and environmental influence, underpinning everything from biodiversity to global tourism.

$4 Billion in Storm Protection

Coral reefs lower storm-related damages by over $4 billion annually. Without reefs, these damages would more than double (+118%), leading to increased land flooding by 69% and affecting 81% more people each year.
A Lifeline for 200 Million People

Nearly 200 million people depend on coral reefs for protection against storm surges and waves, underscoring their critical role in safeguarding coastal communities.
Global Tourism Powerhouse

Coral reefs fuel the global tourism industry, supporting 70 million trips annually and contributing billions in revenue to economies worldwide.
14% Decline in Global Coral Reefs

Since 2009, the world has lost 14% of its coral reefs — equivalent to nearly all of the coral on Australia’s iconic reefs. This sharp decline threatens biodiversity and the economies that rely on healthy reef ecosystems.
Restoring 30% of Coral Reefs

An ambitious but crucial goal, restoring 30% of coral reefs requires a blend of conservation, restoration, and sustainable management efforts to secure both ecological and economic futures.

Chuuk Lagoon, Weno, Federated States of Micronesia

Cold-water corals, found in deep, dark waters across the globe, are vital ecosystem engineers on continental shelves and seamounts. Unlike their tropical counterparts, they do not rely on sunlight but catch their own food from passing currents. Cold-water corals account for over half of the total coral reef coverage on Earth and provide important shelter and nursery grounds for many marine species. These reefs support biodiversity and contribute to carbon sequestration, similar to tropical corals. However, we are only beginning to understand their full ecological value, especially in relation to deep-sea ecosystems.

Key Benefits of Coral Reefs

Biodiversity
Coral reefs host a wide variety of marine species, including sponges, oysters, clams, crabs, sea stars, and countless fish species. They are ecologically connected to seagrass beds, mangroves, and other nearby ecosystems. The Great Barrier Reef, for instance, is home to 400 species of coral and 1,500 species of fish.
Coastal Protection
Coral reefs act as natural barriers, absorbing up to 97% of wave energy, which protects coastlines from erosion, storm surges, and rising seas. This defense helps prevent flooding and reduces the impact of natural disasters.
Fisheries
Many commercially valuable fish species depend on coral reefs for shelter, feeding, and breeding. Reefs support global fishing industries that provide livelihoods to millions of people.
Carbon Sequestration
Coral reefs contribute to carbon cycling in oceans, helping regulate carbon dioxide levels, and thus play a role in mitigating climate change.
Tourism and Recreation
Coral reefs are a major attraction for activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing, driving tourism revenue and supporting local economies.
Cultural Significance
For many coastal and island communities, coral reefs are integral to cultural and spiritual traditions. These ecosystems are embedded in the cultural identity of Indigenous peoples and other local communities.

Threats to Coral Reefs

Climate Change
Overfishing and Destructive Practices
Pollution
Unsustainable Tourism

Coastal Development
Invasive Species
Sedimentation
Diseases

Taking Action to Restore Coral Reefs

Mitigating Climate Change
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions to curb ocean warming and acidification is essential.
Coral Restoration Projects
Techniques such as coral gardening and transplantation can rehabilitate degraded reefs.
Marine Protected Areas
Expanding and strictly enforcing marine protected areas can shield coral reefs from overfishing and pollution, ensuring their long-term survival.
Improving Water Quality
Reducing land-based pollution through better agricultural practices and sewage treatment helps maintain coral health.
Protecting and Rehabilitating Coastal Habitats
Safeguarding and restoring mangroves, seagrasses, and other coastal ecosystems is crucial. These habitats serve as nurseries for reef species and help improve water quality by filtering pollutants.
Reduce Local Stressors
Addressing local threats like pollution, overfishing, and harmful coastal development is essential. Implementing sustainable fishing practices, improving waste management, and regulating coastal development can significantly reduce pressure on coral reefs.
Enhancing Coral Resilience
Innovative research is needed to boost coral resilience to climate change. This includes breeding heat-tolerant coral species, increasing genetic diversity, and developing techniques to improve coral tolerance to rising temperatures and ocean acidification.
Community-Led Conservation
Empowering local communities is key to long-term reef conservation. Providing education, resources, and alternative livelihoods helps engage local and Indigenous communities in managing and protecting reef ecosystems.
Eco-Friendly Recreation and Tourism
Encouraging sustainable tourism practices helps minimize damage to reefs while offering economic incentives for conservation. This can involve setting guidelines for snorkeling, diving, and anchoring to reduce reef stress.
Strengthening Policies
Governments and international bodies must enforce policies that prioritize coral reef protection. Integrating reef conservation into broader environmental and climate strategies is critical to their survival.

Credits

Carlos Duarte
Vanesa Chalastani
Letizia Valluzzi

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