Coralreef.7z Direct

Coral reefs occupy less than 0.1% of the ocean floor but support approximately 25% of all marine species. They are built primarily by scleractinian (stony) corals that form a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae known as zooxanthellae. In recent decades, the frequency of mass bleaching events has increased, threatening the structural integrity of reefs worldwide. This paper explores the "CoralReef" dataset's implications for understanding long-term ecosystem shifts. 2. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

Reef organisms are being studied for potential treatments for cancer, HIV, and cardiovascular diseases. 3. Primary Threats to Coral Health CoralReef.7z

Rising Sea Surface Temperatures (SST) lead to the breakdown of the coral-algal symbiosis. When temperatures exceed a coral's threshold for a prolonged period, the zooxanthellae are expelled, leaving the white calcium carbonate skeleton visible—a process known as bleaching. 3.2 Ocean Acidification Increased atmospheric CO2cap C cap O sub 2 Coral reefs occupy less than 0

Fragments of resilient coral are grown in nurseries and later "outplanted" back onto degraded reefs. the zooxanthellae are expelled

Fringing reefs can absorb up to 97% of wave energy, protecting shorelines from erosion and storm surges.