Reefs

Major Threats

Reefs in peril: Coral reef degradation "Coral reefs are the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world and also the most vulnerable. Threats to coral reefs fall into two principal categories: climate change-induced factors that threaten reefs on a global scale and local factors that cause damage within a more limited geographical area. In 2011, a study by the World Resources Institute reported that 75 percent of coral reefs worldwide were at risk from global and local threats, with a quarter of reefs already damaged beyond repair. Since then, the degradation of coral reefs has continued unabated on a global scale."

The following are not listed in any particular order.

Ocean Acidification

Plastic Pollution

Commercial Fishing

Aquaculture

Invasive Species

Types of Reef

There are several types of reef including ocean types and fresh water. 

Salt Water Reefs

Though reefs are usually associated with salinity, scientists recently discovered a reef at the mouth of the Amazon River where plumes of fresh water meet the ocean.

Click the Ocean Reefs button to learn more about ocean reefs, what threatens them, and how to help save them.

Oyster Reefs

These have decreased rapidly worldwide, but some organizations have found clever ways to help bring them back. 

Not only do they improve water quality, sequester carbon, and boost biodiversity, but they can also help protect shorelines from flooding or even help restore them.

Click the Oyster Reefs button to learn more, including where to recycle oyster shells, where to volunteer, or even how to start your own rewilding projects.

Microbialites

In lakes there are also a lesser-known type known as microbialite, or freshwater reefs.

Click the Lake Reefs button to learn more about these rare reefs and artificial reefs. 

Programs & Projects

North America

USA

Louisiana

Organizations

Europe

North America

USA

New York

Maps

North America

USA

Florida

South America

Bonaire

Grants & Funding

International

North America

Caribbean

USA

Florida

Oceana

Australia

Further Reading