ENVIRONMENT »» WATER POLLUTION »» CORAL REEFS »» Dec 18, 2023

Often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” coral reefs are massive structures made of limestone deposited by coral polyps. Coral reefs begin to form when free-swimming coral larvae attach to submerged rocks or other hard surfaces along the edges of islands or continents. These structures support about 25% of all known marine species. Located in more than 100 countries around the world, coral reefs are found in shallow water where sea surface temperatures range from 68° to 97° F. Most reefs are located between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. Coral reefs provide an important ecosystem for life underwater, protect coastal areas by reducing the power of waves hitting the coast, and provide a crucial source of income for millions of people. They teem with diverse life and thousands of species can be found living on one reef. Advocates say up to 90% of all coral reefs will disappear over the next 25 years due to relentless pressure from climate change, declining water quality, overfishing, pollution and unsustainable coastal development. Proposed Legislation: Reintroduction of H.R.241 - Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2021 Proposed Sponsor: Rep. Steve Chabot (OH)