Coral reefs are nurseries of the ocean.
Healthy reefs are vital for human health. Divers can be the difference between a healthy reef and a tragedy. Over one-quarter of all marine species depend on healthy coral reefs. Humans depend on coral reefs too. Coral reefs are the primary source of food and income for millions of people, produce valuable chemical compounds for medicines, and provide a natural wave barrier, protecting beaches and coastlines from storms and floods.