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Coral
reefs are existing for approx. 450 million
years. Geologically proven (as represented in the
fossil record), ancient coral reefs had a similar complexity
as a nowaday's coral reefs.
There are the two most productive natural systems
in the world: the tropical rain forests and
the coral reefs. Both systems are currently
at high risk as a result of excessive and negligent use,
such as industrial production. Since coral reefs are increasing
in economic value, they must be protected. This is not only
the task of the government, but as well of every individual
(e.g. divers or snorklers). Understanding and care will
ensure their endangered survival.
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Corals and
how they work:
Coral reefs are the largest natural structures in the world.
They are being formed as a result of an interesting relationship
between coral animals (polyps) and
microscopic algae (zooxanthellae):
The polyp, resembling a small sea anemone,
is able to feed itself using stinging cells that are on
its tentacles with paralyse passing
plankton. The plankton is digested. However, it
only supplies a small portion of the nutritional needs of
the polyp. The main nutrition comes from zooxanthellae.
It converts sunlight, carbon dioxide and their
own wastes into oxygen and carbohydrates.
These carbohydrates are also used by the polyp
to make calcium carbonate. This process is
commonly known as calcification. Calcium carbonate
eventually forms what is beeen recognised as coral reef.
In Southern Sinai, there are about 140 species of coral
found on reefs.
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The
Ecosystem of Coral Reef:
For thousands of animals and organisms, coral reefs provide
food and shelter. They all co-exist in complex interconnected
food chains.
Different behavioural patterns permit many organisms to
share the same area, while all organisms mostly haave the
same objectives: to occupy and protect a space,
to feed and to reproduce themselfes. Organisms that are
less successful in this, will in time desappear from the
reef.
Coral reef ecosystems are in a constant
change. Corals grow and therewith provide the framework
for extension of the reef. In the meantime, reefs are being
broken down by animals living in the reef or feeding on
the structure (like sponges, bivalves, urchins, or fish).
For the last 30 years, especially divers and
snorkellers are bringing a lot of damage to
the reefs by taking out parts of the reef, or by simply
not taking care. Easily, when turning around or struggeling
(beginners) a part of a reef may be hit by the feet or a
leg and be broken. Boats anchoring are breaking
out huge parts of coral reef. Recently, it this kind of
damage has been reduced by law force, but still it happens
in many places. If corals are damaged then
the complex equilibrium of the reef will be permanently
changed. It will last many thousands of years to recover
what has been damaged. The result is loss of productivity
and biodiversity. Both have serious economic consequences.
In this sense it is our task to protect these
natural recourses as well as possible. |
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References:
Egyptian
Environment Affairs Agency -
Department of Natural Protectorates |
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