Project 4: Big Question Research Paper

The Role of the Reef:

An Exploration of the Importance and Fate of Coral Reefs

Eric Buell

Department of English, Weber State University

English 2015

Dr. Miranda Kispert, Dr. Elizabeth Robinson

November 22, 2023

 The Role of the Reef:

An Exploration of the Importance and Fate of Coral Reefs

From the vantage point of space, our planet reveals itself as a mesmerizing expanse of

blue, a testament to the overwhelming presence of water that blankets its surface. Earth, as seen

from afar, appears as a brilliant jewel adorned with oceans, and within this aqueous realm lies a

hidden treasure of unparalleled ecological importance — coral reefs. Amidst the expansive blue

tapestry, these underwater wonders emerge as vibrant oases, hubs of biodiversity that play a

crucial role in shaping the health of our global ecosystem. However, since the 1950’s coral reefs,

these submerged landscapes have been undergoing a gradual decline. The once vibrant

ecosystem is dying and threatening to upturn the delicate balance of one of the most important

systems in the ocean. Coral reefs are disappearing, threatening the delicate ecosystem they

provide, but can potentially be saved if action is taken soon.

Now, why are coral reefs important? What makes them so crucial to oceanic marine

biology? Coral reefs are a vital ecosystem, significantly contributing to the health and balance of

the planet. Coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. There are coral reefs

all across the ocean, living in warm, shallow, tropical, seas, and even in the cold, dark depths of

the ocean (NOAA, 2019) Rich in biodiversity, they host a staggering array of marine life, from

vibrant corals to thousands of species of fish, invertebrates, and microorganisms. These

organisms play a crucial role in the ecological web, ensuring the resilience and stability of

marine environments. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA. 2019) is a

federal agency focused on the condition of the oceans and the atmosphere. They state the

following:
 Because of the diversity of life found in the habitats created by corals, reefs are often

called the “rainforests of the sea.” About 25% of the ocean’s fish depend on healthy coral

reefs, fishes and other organisms’ shelter, find food, reproduce, and rear their young in

the many nooks and crannies formed by corals. The Northwest Hawaiian Island coral

reefs, which are part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, provide an

example of the diversity of life associated with shallow-water reef ecosystems. This area

supports more than 7,000 species of fishes, invertebrates, plants, sea turtles, birds, and

marine mammals. Deep water reefs or mounds are less well known, but also support a

wide array of sea life in a comparatively barren world. (para. 1)

Beyond their role as biodiversity hotspots, coral reefs act as natural barriers, protecting coastlines

from erosion and storm damage. The intricate symbiotic relationships within coral ecosystems

contribute to nutrient cycling and water filtration, maintaining the overall health of the oceans.

Additionally, coral reefs are of immense economic importance to coastal communities,

supporting livelihoods through fisheries, tourism, and various other industries. According to the

NOAA(2019), “Over half a billion people depend on reefs for food, income, and

protection…...The net economic value of the world’s coral reefs is estimated to be nearly tens of

billions of U.S. dollars per year.” (para. 4) Their cultural significance is profound, woven into the

fabric of traditions and identities for many communities. Moreover, coral reefs have showcased

promise in medical research, providing compounds that could lead to breakthroughs in

pharmaceuticals. Organisms in coral reefs have been found to contain compounds used to treat

cardiovascular diseases, leukemia, lymphoma, ulcers, and skin cancer. (Coral Reef Alliance, n.d.)

Despite these invaluable contributions, coral reefs face unprecedented threats due to

climate and human involvement. The foremost among these challenges is global warming, which
has led to rising sea temperatures causing coral bleaching-a phenomenon where corals expel the

symbiotic algae that provide them with color and nutrients, rendering them vulnerable to disease

and death. Bleaching stress refers to conditions such as temperature, light, and nutrients that

cause coral to turn completely white. A study published by PubMed Central researched sea

surface temperature measurements (SST) and historical thermal stress over a 28 year period. The

researchers concluded, “(i) 97% of reef pixels warmed through this [28-year period]; (ii) cooler

seasons represented less of a reprieve from warm-season stress; and (iii) more than three times as

many reef pixels were exposed to bleaching-level thermal stress at the end of the record than was

characteristic of the late 1980s, with even more drastic increases expected in coming decades.”

(Heron et al., para. 33) Coral bleaching is exacerbated by ocean acidification, a consequence of

increased carbon dioxide absorption by seawater, impairing the ability of corals to build their

skeletons. (Veron et al., 2009) Declining aragonite saturation further undermines the crucial

process of coral calcification. (Veron et al., 2009) Anthropogenic stressors compound these

climate-induced threats; overfishing disrupts the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, while

poor water quality, stemming from pollution and coastal development, compromises the health of

coral reefs. Additionally, sea-level changes and the intensification of storms contribute to

physical damage, further eroding their resilience. (Veron et al., 2009) The cumulative effect of

these stressors weakens coral immune responses and reduces genetic diversity, compromising the

adaptive capacity of these ecosystems. It is this intricate interplay of natural and human-induced

factors that poses an imminent and severe threat to the existence of coral reefs.

These threats are devastating to coral reefs. Because these challenges are on a large scale,

protecting coral reefs will require large scale solutions to be truly effective. Saving coral reefs

demands a comprehensive and coordinated effort at both individual and collective levels. On an
individual basis, responsible practices such as sustainable diving and snorkeling, the use of coral-

friendly sunscreen, and the proper disposal of trash and recycling can mitigate immediate local

impacts. (EPA, 2023) The reduction of fertilizers and the promotion of eco-friendly

transportation further alleviate stress on coral ecosystems. Energy conservation at home and

work, alongside the avoidance of purchasing living coral, directly contributes to the preservation

of these delicate ecosystems. (EPA, 2023) Yet, the scale of the challenge requires broader,

systemic solutions. Afforestation and sustainable forest planning can act as natural carbon sinks,

alleviating the overarching threat of global warming. (Mulligan et al., 2023) Implementing

environmentally conscious farming practices and utilizing soil as a natural carbon sequester can

further mitigate the impacts of climate change on coral reefs. (Mulligan et al., 2023)

Additionally, exploring advanced technologies such as biomass carbon removal, direct air

capture, and ocean-based approaches holds promise in addressing the root causes of coral reef

decline. (Mulligan et al., 2023) It is imperative, however, that these strategies be integrated and

implemented collectively, recognizing the interconnectedness of terrestrial and marine

environments. Embracing a future where multiple methods work in tandem is crucial for the

sustained health and resilience of coral reefs. In essence, the salvation of these invaluable

ecosystems necessitates a harmonized global approach, one that spans individual behavioral

changes, community engagement, and international cooperation to ensure the longevity of coral

reefs for generations to come.

Coral reefs are disappearing. That is no question. The disappearance of coral reefs poses

a significant threat to the intricate ecosystems they support, emphasizing the urgent need for

intervention. However, there remains hope for their preservation if timely and decisive action is

undertaken. Soon, we will reach a point of no return, where the vast majority of remaining coral
reefs cannot be saved. Some scientists even argue it might be too late: “The speed at which

climate change is impacting reef ecosystems leaves little opportunity for evolutionary processes

to come to the aid of corals and other reef inhabitants as they would have done over geological

intervals of time.” (Veron et al., para. 5) But there is hope if we humans can take those necessary

steps, however difficult or expensive they may be. Should we not soon, no amount of time,

energy, or resources will save coral reefs for future generations from our failed guardianship.

(Veron et al., para 5.)

 References

Veron, J.E.N., Hoegh-Guldberg, O., Lenton, T.M., Lough, J.M., Obura, D.O., Pearce-Kelly, P.,

Sheppard, C.R.C, Spalding, M., Stafford-Smith, M.G., Rogers, A.D. (2009). The coral reef crisis:

The critical importance of <3500ppm CO2. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 58(10), 1428-1436.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2009.09.009

Heron, S. F., Maynard, J. A., Van Hooidonk, R., Eakin, C. M. (2016). Warming trends and

bleaching stress of the world’s coral reefs 1985-2021. National Library of Medicine.

https://doi.org/10.1038%2Fsrep38402

NOAA. (2019). Coral reef ecosystems. NOAA. https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-

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%20from,food%2C%20income%2C%20and%20protection.

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%20organisms%20found%20on%20reefs,be%20found%20on%20coral%20reefs.

Mulligan, J., Ellison, G., Levin, K., Lebing, K., Rudee, A., Leslie-Bole, H. (2023). 6 ways to remove

carbon pollution from the atmosphere. World Resources Institute.

https://www.wri.org/insights/6-ways-remove-carbon-pollution-sky#:~:text=Potential

%20solutions%20include%20leveraging%20photosynthesis,that%20ultimately%20help

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United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2023). What you can do to help protect coral

reefs. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/coral-reefs/what-you-can-

do-help-protect-coral-reefs.