7 Coral Reefs The rainforests of the Sea

Often called “rainforests of the sea”, coral reefs form some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. The colors of the corals, together with the most beautiful fish and sea anemones make the reefs a dream for each diver, and a treasure for each photographer.

Corals are colonies of tiny living animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Most coral reefs are built from stony corals, which in turn consist of polyps that cluster in groups. Reefs grow best in warm, shallow, clear, sunny and agitated waters.
They are highly sensitive to environmental changes. Scientists have predicted that over 50% of the world’s coral reefs may be destroyed by 2030, as a result most nations protect them through environmental laws.

Enjoy the beauty of the sea…


Chalice Coral
author: Yarrr matey

Coral Reef at Palmyra Atoll
author: USFWS Pacific

Coral Great Barrier Reef
author: Mshai

Arrecife de coral
author: copepodo

Candycane Coral
author: blahness71

Coral
author: Peter Clarke

Coral Branches
author: 1sock

source: http://www.pxleyes.com/blog/2011/06/photography-50-coral-reefs-the-rainforests-of-the-sea/