The Ecology of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs represent a unique ecological phenomenon, which is taking place through many hundred millions years of the geological history of our planet. They keep their ecological stability, despite the radical evolutionary changes of all terrestrial biota. In human life, reefs play an important role in connection with their protective role in the preservation of sea coasts from storms and hurricanes, and provide high-grade albuminous food to men. They represent a unique visual phenomenon, rich in colors and various forms, and are often connected with deposits of gold, diamonds, oil, gas, and building materials.

This lavishly illustrated book explores the concept of reef ecosystems in order to allow the reader to become familiar with the characteristics of plants and animals found in coral reefs. It provides a conceptual description of the reef and its inhabitants, and sets out the overall species composition and structure of reefs and their corallobionts. An effective and novel introduction to the nature and ecology of coral reefs, this book offers not only general and specific information and details about coral reef communities and their environs, but also demonstrates the unfortunate fact that coral reefs are increasingly being endangered by and through human encroachment, overfishing, pollution, and climate change.