1. Distribution and Diversity of Coral Reef Communities

2. What Is a Coral Reef Community? Coral reefs by definition are composed predominantly of scleractinian corals. Most scleractinians, and particularly those that build reefs, are colonial, anemone-like animals that house microscopic algae and secrete skeletal structures composed of calcium carbonate. The coral animal apparently derives energy and nutrients through photosynthesis, which enhances its growth and allows it to thrive in nutrient- poor conditions.

3. Biodiversity Fish Invertebrates Algae Seabirds

5. Darwin's Paradox Coral reefs cover less than one tenth of one percent of the surface of the world’s ocean, yet they support over one-quarter of all marine species.