The Immense Value of Coral Reefs and the Threat it is Currently Facing

Most people like to travel around the world. A beautiful beach and a relaxing sound under the hot sun sounds like a perfect vacation. Visitors usually like the clear blue sea, fish, and various underwater creatures that are visible. These perfect holidays will not last unless people are cautious about their daily behavior. The sea is made of colorful coral reefs. Several of today's coral reefs are in danger of extinction and need to look after them for our benefit.

As part of the global industry, coral reefs made a great contribution to the world economy. In fact, the annual income of some countries, such as Caribbean countries, is mainly derived from activities centered on coral reefs. Unfortunately, the number of coral reefs has declined recently at an amazing rate. This unprecedented reduction, such as irresponsible destructive fishing methods, contamination from neighboring areas, uncontrolled coral mining, excessive erosion from coastal area artifacts, is a serious threat to coral reef function I will.

In 1998, the President of the United States established Coral Reef Task Force (CRTF) to protect and protect coral reefs. CRTF is responsible for mapping and monitoring coral reefs in the United States, investigating the causes of coral reef degradation, including contamination and overfishing, finding solutions to these problems, promoting conservation and sustainable use of coral reefs. As a key member of the CRTF and in accordance with the 2000 Coral Reef Protection Act, NOAA is responsible for protecting coral reef ecosystems.

Population growth and urban development are currently the biggest threat to coral reefs. Development activities lead to erosion, resulting in the loss of sediments and ultimately reaching coral reefs. Rainwater outflow also brings fertilizer and sewage into the ocean and destroys coral reefs. Following the increase in nutrient concentration in coral reef environments, algae will increase, which can potentially smother the corals. Whether direct rain or rising turbidity of nutrients, the amount of sunlight reaching the coral decreases.