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Coral Reef Research Paper

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In the past few decades, a major concern has arisen concerning the drastic deterioration of coral reefs. Coral reefs have resided on the earth longer than any living mammal. However, recent research has shown, “Despite the natural ability to persist, many coral reef ecosystems are in poor health” (Ferguson 46). As leading examples for the rest of the world, citizens of the United States should become familiar with the earth’s systems, such as the oceans and their coinciding reefs. People should also learn the impacts coral reefs have on their lives, as well as how everyday human activities undeniably affect reefs.
Coral reefs are indispensable to multiple life forms, particularly human beings. In response to concerns, many environmental …show more content…

Accurately, more than one-quarter of all marine wildlife lives within the boundaries of salt water reefs (Glick). Though government organizations are aware, the few existent laws and regulations have protected a lacking amount of these animals and their fragile sanctuaries. In addition, the oceans do not solely serve as habitats for thousands of marine species, but also serve as major contributors in the regulation of the earth’s weather and climate. The oceans also provide millions of jobs in the tourism, recreation, fishing and shipping industries (Weeks). Few people give coral reefs the clear recognition they deserve, and they are helplessly neglected. Circumstantially, human activities cause significant damage to the coral reef system. Afterwards, the damage could inevitably influence the function of the oceans and negatively impact everyday life on …show more content…

Responsively, coral reefs serve as natural barriers to hazards such as hurricanes and floods, and roughly “Hundreds of millions of people depend on reefs for protection from storms and tsunamis” (Schrope). During oncoming storms, significant amounts of wind energy can be absorbed by the reefs alone. Coral reef areas effectively protect the nearby coasts by reducing storm damage and erosion commonly caused by intense wave action (Glick). As the hazards near shore, the reefs act as a buffer and decrease or even divert the oncoming disasters. Thanks to coral reefs, the damage is less significant, but victims still pay millions to restore their communities affected by natural disasters. After the disasters occur, the program organized by the NOAA and NFWF helps clean up and replenish the affected areas. Preserving coral reefs could inevitably help the government save money in the long

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