Sea corals are marine invertebrates that belong to the phylum Cnidaria and the class Anthozoa.
They
are colonial organisms composed of thousands of tiny, genetically identical polyps that secrete
calcium carbonate to form hard, protective skeletons. These skeletons accumulate over time,
creating the vast and intricate structures known as coral reefs, which are some of the most diverse
and productive ecosystems on Earth.
Corals are broadly classified into two types: hard corals (Scleractinia) and soft corals (Alcyonacea).
Hard corals, also called reef-building corals, are responsible for forming the foundations of coral
reefs. They extract calcium carbonate from seawater to create their rigid exoskeletons, which provide
habitat for numerous marine species. Soft corals, in contrast, do not produce a stony skeleton but
instead have a flexible, leathery structure that sways with ocean currents.
Coral polyps have a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live
within their tissues. These algae perform photosynthesis, producing oxygen and organic compounds
that supply the coral with much of its energy. In return, the coral provides the algae with nutrients
and protection. This relationship is responsible for the vibrant colors of many corals and is vital for
the health of coral reefs.
Corals thrive in warm, shallow, sunlit waters, typically in tropical and subtropical regions between
30°N and 30°S latitude. They require clear water with stable salinity levels and optimal temperatures
between 23–29°C (73–84°F). However, climate change, ocean acidification, pollution, and destructive
fishing practices threaten coral reefs worldwide. Rising sea temperatures can cause coral bleaching, a
phenomenon where corals expel their symbiotic algae, leaving them white and vulnerable to disease.
Coral reefs support an immense variety of marine life, including fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and
larger predators such as sharks. They also serve as natural coastal barriers, protecting shorelines
from erosion and storm surges. Furthermore, corals contribute to medical research, as some species
produce compounds with potential pharmaceutical applications.
Despite their resilience, corals face significant environmental challenges, and conservation efforts are
crucial to their survival. Marine protected areas, coral farming, artificial reef structures, and global
initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and pollution all play a role in preserving these vital marine
ecosystems.
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