2 Factors That Can Damage Coral

Coral reefs are home to thousands of creatures and are found in tropical and sub-tropical waters around the world. The composition of life in the coral reef differs from location to location. Coral has become endangered due to a number of factors in recent years contributing to the damage.

  1. Overfishing

    • Nearly 1 billion people live within 60 miles of coral reefs and rely on coral reef fish as their main protein source, according to Project AWARE. Taking too much of a certain species of fish off the coral reef interferes in the food chain and can lead to disturbances in the eco-balance and, eventually, coral dying. Poor fishing practices -- such as fishing with dynamite and cyanide -- can destroy entire reefs.

    Collision Damage

    • Although collision damage from boats hitting the reefs is relatively rare, damage done by small boats dropping anchors and crushing habitats on the coral happens too often. Damage by divers and snorkelers touching the reef and killing the coral can also occur. Other issues such as boat propellors catching reefs and boat operators dumping garbage on the reef can also significantly damage the eco-system.

    Land Based

    • Not all problems to the coral are confined to the water, with land-based activities contributing a great deal to coral decline. Such issues include deforestation and poor land management causing sediment run-off into the ocean and onto the reef. Pollution discharge and the destruction of ocean-side habitats such as mangroves for coastal development can affect the nutrient levels reaching the coral reefs.

    What You Can Do

    • One way to save the coral reefs is to educate those who are causing the damage to them and explain the reasons to protect them. Coral not only provides a habitat to fish life but is used in medicines and is an important tourist attraction for some areas. Groups such as Project A.W.A.R.E. (Aquatic World Awareness Responsibility Education) are trying to promote coral preservation. When you dive, snorkel or use a boat around coral, pay attention to what you are doing and try to help save the reefs.