Imagine a bustling city underwater, teeming with life in every color imaginable. That's a coral reef, one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. Coral reefs are formed by colonies of tiny animals called coral polyps, which secrete a hard skeleton made of calcium carbonate. Over time, these skeletons build up to form the complex structures that we know as coral reefs.
Coral reefs provide habitat for a vast array of marine life, including fish, invertebrates, and algae. They also protect coastlines from erosion and storm surge, and they support fisheries and tourism industries that provide livelihoods for millions of people. However, coral reefs are under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing.
What are some of the impacts of climate change on coral reefs? How does pollution affect coral health? What can be done to protect and restore coral reefs? Consider the importance of these underwater cities and the steps we can take to ensure their survival for future generations.
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