Ecosystems

Critical Thinking Activity

The tropical rain forest is probably the most diverse ecosystem found on land. Its counterpart in the marine world is the coral reef. Coral reefs are formed by Cnidarians, so let's take a look at Cnidaria: Life History and Ecology. There are several interesting links on this page. Follow them out to see where they go. The coral forming Cnidaria are found among the Anthozoa. Further subdivision brings us to the Scleractinian ("hard-rayed") corals.

Where are coral reefs found? Try Coral Reefs around the World. Now let's view reef composition. Illustrating the amazing diversity within the coral reef ecosystem, is the fact that there are nearly 1000 species of reef building corals. The world's coral reefs are home to around 5000 species of fish and countless invertebrates. For a brief survey of this diversity, turn to the Reef Ecosystem.

How long do corals live? What kinds of dangers threaten their survival? What can humans do to help ensure the continuation of coral reefs? For answers to these questions look at the following two Web sites: Longevity and Causes of Death, and Coral Reefs: An Endangered Ecosystem.

For pure enjoyment, browse through the Coral Photo Gallery. Photos always compose large files, so be patient in downloading these pictures, they are worth it. Once the small versions have downloaded, you are instructed to click on any given photo to see a larger version. Do it, because the larger views appear much more quickly than the original download of photos.

FOR INVESTIGATION: For each inquiry, write your thoughts in a short paragraph for later comparison.

1. In what way could we say that green algae have actually built the coral reefs?

2. Let's do a little Web searching: what is the present situation in Papua New Guinea involving their coral reefs?

3. Why are all present day coral reefs probably no more than 10,000 years old?

4. How could the death of a coral reef just below the water's surface affect the deep-sea fish and other organisms living thousands of feet below?

5. What is cyanide fishing, why is it so terrible, and what can YOU do to help stop it?

Cnidaria: Life History and Ecology

Anthozoa: Life History and Ecology

Introduction to the Scleractinia

Clickable Reef "Hot" Spots--Coral reefs are found in 109 countries throughout the world, but it is estimated...

Coral Reefs--Reef composition.

Reef Ecosystem

Longevity and Causes of Death of Corals

CORAL REEFS--An Endangered Ecosystem

Welcome to the CORAL Photo Gallery!