is absorbed by the ocean, lowering the pH. This reduces the availability of carbonate ions, making it more difficult for corals to calcify and build their skeletons. 3.3 Local Stressors
Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse and economically valuable ecosystems on Earth. Often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," they provide essential services including coastal protection, fisheries support, and tourism revenue. However, these ecosystems are under unprecedented threat from global climate change, overfishing, and local pollution. This paper synthesizes current data on reef health, examines the physiological mechanisms of coral bleaching, and evaluates the efficacy of modern restoration techniques. 1. Introduction CoralReef.7z
The complexity of coral structures provides niche habitats for thousands of organisms. is absorbed by the ocean, lowering the pH
Reefs are the primary protein source for over a billion people. Often referred to as the "rainforests of the