What are Coral Reefs?

Coral reefs are complex ecosystems in tropical seas, formed by coral polyps that cluster together on limestone skeletons. These living structures are considered the centre of marine biodiversity and provide habitat for more than 25% of marine organisms. Corals live together with algae called zooxanthellae in a symbiotic relationship and produce energy by photosynthesising thanks to these algae.

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Types of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are divided into different types according to the way they are formed:

1. Fringing Reefs

They are reefs that are close to the shore and form a transition zone between land and sea. It usually has mild waters and provides protection against wave action.

Fringing Reefs[/caption

2. Barrier Reefs

These reefs, which are located further from the shore in the open sea, are larger and more complex than coastal reefs. Between them are shallow water areas called lagoons. The world’s most famous barrier reef is the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

3. Coral Islands (Atolls)

They are reefs that form around volcanic islands and take the shape of a ring with the sinking of the island in the centre over time. This type of reef is usually seen in tropical regions.

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Life Cycle and Habitats of Corals

Corals move from the planktonic larval stage to the adult stage where they form a stable colony. They prefer to live in warm, clear and shallow waters (usually 20-30 °C) in tropical regions. The salinity, temperature and light level of sea water directly affect the life cycle of corals.

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Are there coral reefs in Turkey?

Since Turkey is located in the north of the Mediterranean Sea, it is not within the natural distribution area of coral reefs. However, some coral species such as cold water corals and gorgonian corals can be seen along the Turkish coasts, especially in the Aegean and Mediterranean. Although these corals do not form reefs, they play an important role in the marine ecosystem.

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Importance of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are of vital importance not only for marine life but also for humans:

• • Biodiversity: A quarter of all marine species live on coral reefs.

 

• • Coastal Protection: Protects coasts by absorbing storm waves.

 

• • Economic Value: It contributes to sectors such as tourism, fisheries and pharmaceutical production.

 

• • Carbon Storage: It plays an important role in the carbon cycle.

 

The Importance of Coral Reefs

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Coral Reef Conservation and Restoration

Creating Protection Zones

Natural habitats of corals can be secured by establishing protected marine areas.

Sustainable Fisheries

It is necessary to control fishing activities and prevent illegal fishing. Preventing coral predation is one way to protect the ecosystem.

Pollution Minimisation

Waste water treatment systems should be improved and chemical and plastic pollution flowing into the seas should be prevented.

Restoration Works

Through innovative methods such as coral transplantation, damaged coral reefs can be restored.

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Impact of Climate Change on Coral Reefs

1. Increasing Sea Water Temperature:
   An increase in ocean temperatures causes corals to lose symbiotic algae, resulting in a phenomenon called coral bleaching. Long-term bleaching can lead to the death of corals.
2. Acidification of Seawater:
   Carbon dioxide (CO₂) absorption lowers the pH level of seawater, weakening the limestone skeletons of corals.
3. Sea Level Rise:
   Sea level rise can slow coral growth by limiting light access. Why are Coral Reefs Precious?

Coral reefs are of great importance not only for the marine ecosystem but also for people and the world. However, they are under serious threat from climate change, pollution and human activities. The protection of coral reefs is vital for a sustainable future. By adopting nature-friendly practices and conservation efforts, we can secure the future of these unique ecosystems.