Tropical seas are renowned for their variety of colour and fascinating marine life. Coral reefs have a unique place in this aquatic world and indeed their surrounding environment. Despite its "plant like" appearance, coral is actually a marine animal of the invertebrate species having no spinal columns, like jellyfish. Coral reefs are sensitive ecosystems, which are under treat from human and natural elements alike. Reefs have formed over millions of years, and their scientific study …showed first 75 words of 261 total…

…showed last 75 words of 261 total…filter which removes detritus impurities, providing a clean habitat for marine plants and animals. Reefs grow faster in clear water and in the warm temperatures of tropical oceans are generally found at depths less than 46 metres, where sunlight penetrates, a necessary condition for corals to thrive and grow. Waves also carry food, nutrients and oxygen to the reef. Shallow, warm , tropical waters with strong wave action are ideal conditions for these unique organisms to flourish.