It is the biggest source of wild or domestic protein in the world. But 15 of the world's 17 largest fisheries are either overfished or in trouble. Any big weather event, such as a hurricane, typhoon, flood or drought, is generated by ocean conditions. Major climate events, such as El Ni o, result from ocean temperature changes. El Ni o refers to abnormally warm ocean surface temperatures and changing wind patterns, which changes weather around the globe.
Many scientists belive that coral reefs absorb carbon dioxide in the same way that oceans do.
They also note that coral reefs are a breeding ground for a wide variety of marine life.