Coral reefs are one of the most spectacular of nature's creations. They are among the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on earth.
Reefs also protect the shoreline by acting as natural barriers between the open sea and coastlines.
In this way, they help to prevent coastal erosion . Coral reefs are the breeding and feeding grounds of many commercially important fish and other marine life. Therefore, they benefit the economies of tropical countries by supporting reef fisheries. More importantly, these activities support the livelihoods of many coastal communities. Coral reefs throughout the world are faced with numerous threats, which often lead to them being irreversibly damaged.