Coral is a structure made up of millions of very small marine animals called polyps. The polyp, which is tube-shaped, is only an inch long. At the end of this tube is a mouth surrounded by tentacles that bring sea creatures to it. The color of corals is very diverse, as well as their shapes and sizes. They have both an internal and an external skeleton. They can be soft or hard, black, smooth or prickly and other types. Some are like feathers, others are like fingers. The polyps are hollow and attach themselves to other polyps or to limestone rocks to form large structures. Almost all corals live together in groups called colonies. Very large colonies are called reefs. Polyps take calcium from sea water and turn it into limestone around the lower part of their body. New polyps grow and the limestone structure gets bigger and bigger.
Corals live in oceans all over the world, but survive best in warm water. In tropical oceans, they form large structures called atolls. Atolls grow around old volcanoes and form ring-shaped islands. Coral polyps eat small marine animals such as jellyfish larvae. Some people need seaweed to survive. Corals can reproduce by budding. Small buds appear on the body of the polyp. They grow up and separate from their parents. Corals can also lay eggs that grow into new colonies. Some types of coral live for hundreds of years.
coral reef
A coral reef is an underwater mountain formed by coral skeletons. Reefs are also made up of other living things such as seaweed or shellfish. The coral reef has vibrant colors and can grow for hundreds of years without being destroyed by the ocean. Location of coral reefs around the world.
Reef types:
- Reef line - located near the coast line they are usually the youngest reef forms
- Barrier reefs are located farther from the coast they form a wall between shallow water near the coast and the open sea some barrier reefs are very large The longest - 2 thousand kilometers long Large barrier reef on the east coast australia
- Atolls are ring-shaped reefs. They form when an old volcano erupts and sinks into the sea.
Most reefs need warm water to survive They grow best in water that is at least between 16 and 20 degrees. Reefs also need enough sunlight to feed. Coral reefs can also be found in the warm ocean waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans as well as in the Caribbean Sea and the east coast of the central part South America They usually grow very slowly, no more than 10 cm per year. They can be found near the surface where they get enough sunlight.
Life on coral reefs
A coral reef can have thousands of different types of corals and other organisms. This would be a record if not for the rainforests, which can contain even more different organisms. So Coral reefs called the tropical forests of the sea. Many fish species live near coral reefs. Their bodies have the ability to change, which makes it possible for them to live and find food in this area. In addition, coral reefs are home to crabs, lobsters, octopuses, starfish and other invertebrates.
Significance of corals and coral reefs:
- Corals remove and recycle carbon dioxide, a gas that is responsible for the greenhouse effect.
- Reefs protect islands and continents from waves and storms and allow other species to thrive in the shallow waters near the coast.
- A coral reef is a complex ecosystem with many different types of organisms. Without reefs, they would die.
- Coral skeletons are used as substances for bones and other parts of our body.
- Coral reefs are living laboratories for scientists and students.
- The reefs attract millions of tourists every year.
- People make jewelry made from coral reefs.
Major threats to coral reefs:
There are many lists advertising the seven wonders. ancient world, the new world, various countries and continents, but not a single list has yet been created for the seven wonders underwater world. In 1989 CEDAM International, an international association of divers, decided to create their own ranking describing the world's most breathtaking underwater locations. In this article, you will find a fascinating tour of the seas, lakes and oceans, offering a virtual acquaintance with the 7 wonders of the underwater world.
1. Galapagos Islands: Located in the Pacific Ocean, west of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands grew out of earth's crust from an ocean volcano at the bottom of the ocean. The relatively new volcanic geology has created a habitat rich in flora, fauna and animal life that has been studied and admired by numerous travelers, scientists and nature lovers from every continent.
2. Northern Red Sea: Some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world are located in the Northern Red Sea. They are even called the underwater "Garden of Paradise". This reef has the most diverse marine life in the world. Situated between Asia and Africa, the Northern Red Sea spans over 169,000 square miles. There are over 70 species of hard coral, 30 species of soft coral, over 500 species of fish including hundreds of additional species of reef marine life.
3. The Palau Islands are located approximately 500 miles from island nation Philippines. In local reefs you can observe the most beautiful views of fish in the world, more than 350 species of stony corals, 200 species of soft corals, 300 species of sponges and 1,300 species of reef fish.
4. Lake Baikal is the second largest reservoir of fresh water in the world. Located in Russia, the lake has average depth 2,442 feet and contains approximately 20% of the world's surface fresh water. 25 million years old and 1642 meters deep, Lake Baikal is the oldest and most deep lake in the world.
5. Great Barrier Reef: the most big system coral reefs in the world. Located in Australia, this reef system is made up of 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, 1,600 miles in total length. The overall structure of a reef is made up of billions of tiny organisms known as coral polyps. Along with the ocean, the reef creates a habitat that supports a wide variety of marine life that is currently endangered. Due to the vast beauty of the Reef, people find it very attractive to visit, thereby causing damage to the local nature and ecosystem.
6. Deep sea vents, otherwise known as hypothermal vents, are fissures along the ocean floor that release superheated water from deep within the earth's crust. Hot water is saturated with dissolved minerals, mainly sulfides, which crystallize to create a chimney-like opening around each vent. When the superheated water in the valve reaches the cold ocean water Many minerals are released, creating a distinctive black color. Deep Sea vents were first discovered in 1977 near the Galapagos Islands by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They are believed to exist in both the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean, on average at a depth of 2100 meters.
7. Belize Barrier Reef: The second largest reef system in the world. Located on the coast of Belize, this reef is believed to be one of the the best places in the world to dive and swim. Over 186 miles long, the reef is part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which stretches from Cancun to Honduras for a total of 560 miles. Only 10% of this reef has actually been explored. Part of the reef is the famous blue hole Belize:
Egypt - start ancient civilization, "pearl of the east", a blessed land. This is the country of the sun and the warm sea.
Egypt is a huge Arab country that occupies part of the Sinai Peninsula and much of North Africa. Part of Egypt is a rolling or sandy desert interspersed with oases. The remaining small part is the delta and valley of the Nile River, inhabited by 65 million people.
here is mild, subtropical. Warm sea, upscale hotels, many tourist routes able to make your vacation in this country unforgettable and exciting.
Coral reefs in Egypt
The diversity of the underwater world in the Red Sea is a godsend for lovers of underwater beauty. This is a pearl that attracts diving enthusiasts. Even beginners inexperienced in underwater sports, getting to the resorts of Egypt for the first time, become true connoisseurs of the indescribable beauties of the Red Sea. It offers vacationers to enjoy the contemplation of a huge number of species of fish, there are about one hundred and fifty types of corals.
All the richness of the sea depths are national treasure. The authorities of the country show attention and concern for the preservation of national wealth. Therefore, causing any harm to the flora and fauna of the underwater world is subject to large fines and certain sanctions.
In some places, coral reefs are located along the coast. They amaze with a variety of shapes and color schemes. Corals can be branched, flat, round, dark blue to pale pink. It is noteworthy that only living corals are colored. After death and loss of soft integumentary tissues, corals leave a white-calcium skeleton.
What are corals
This is a class of marine invertebrates such as cnidarians. Their polyps, living at depths, in warm tropical seas, feed on plankton. The temperature of the water where corals live must be at least twenty degrees Celsius. Coral islands, like reefs, are formed by large accumulations of corals.
They are called the sea "treasures" of Egypt. This is a real marine oasis.
Other articles on Egypt:
We will tell you what can be remembered in one of the most ancient countries in the world.
Going to rest, do not forget to get acquainted with the weather.
We decided to relax in, find out the most favorable places for this.
Where are the best corals in Egypt
South Sinai- this is a huge expanse for diving enthusiasts, stretching from Sharm el-Sheikh to the Ras Muhammad National Park. The Strait of Tiran stretches here, with a series of various coastal reefs.
Ras Muhammad Reserve stretched from Sinai to the depths of the Red Sea. There are three main areas where diving centers are concentrated.
The most famous area is called Shark Reef.
It forms the top of an underwater mountain that rises off the coast. It is separated from the land by a shallow strait. It is known for its sheer wall, which goes deeper than fifty meters. The coral thickets here amaze with their density and splendor. They are especially visible on flat and small areas. The coral species found here are Dendronephthya and Acropora, Gorgon corals, disc and head corals.
Dedelus Reef
Located along the coast of Egypt towards Saudi Arabia.
This is an isolated small reef. In depth, it descends to seventy meters. The concentration of active growth of corals is observed here from the western slope.
Marsa Alam
The resort prides itself on its main attraction, its pristine coral coast. The water here is crystal clear and very rich in flora and fauna. A huge advantage of the resort is peace and quiet, beautiful coastal reefs. Here is a famous diving school in all of Egypt. This perfect place for diving.
Abu Dabbab has a huge number of corals, forming dense pillars that rise to the surface of the sea.
Elphistone rightly called the pearl of corals. It is small in size. Its sheer walls go to great depths. They are just covered with all sorts of corals of different types.
Shaab Samadai- the shape of this reef is similar to a horseshoe, which distinguishes it from the rest. It has an impressive size. Differs in the richness of the underwater world.
Shaab Sharm- located 8 km. from Marsa Alam. Oche
H is a large hammer-shaped reef. It is covered with thickets of corals. Scuba diving enthusiasts noted as a place with a huge wealth of the underwater world.
Where are the best corals in Egypt in Hurghada
In the water surroundings, there are about forty places that are distinguished by a variety of fauna, flora and relief. Each of them is unique.
Here are some of the most famous:
Small Giftun
This is a coral sanctuary owned by National Park"Giftun". Gardens of corals, gorgonians grow on the eastern side of the island.
Abu Ramada Hulk. It is popular for its sheer wall, which goes seventy meters deep. There is an underwater ten-meter through cave - this is an interesting tunnel for divers in the reef. On the north side of "Abu Ramada" is a beautiful plateau. A little to the north is wide cave popular with divers. Despite the strong currents characteristic of these places, it is the most attractive for divers due to the extraordinary beauty of the plateau and the coral wall. But best place south side is considered. Here you can dive in any weather, almost complete protection from winds and currents.
"Reef Carless"- known for its lush coral garden and two coral towers. Carless is appreciated by the variety of relief, although it is the most remote reef in the vicinity of Hurghada. It stands on the open sea. It doesn't come out of the water.
"El Fanadir"- the longest reef in the vicinity of Hurghada, with a length of more than two km.
Where are the best corals in Egypt at
There are reefs almost everywhere in this area. But there are several places where they are most picturesque.
The brightest can be called Bay "Ras Um Sid". Its coral reefs are among the most magnificent. In some places, the coast line descends smoothly into the depths. And the reef itself goes deep into sixty meters.
It deserves to be called the second in beauty and sophistication. The reef is very beautiful and lively.
The most beautiful corals in Egypt on the islands
However, in order to see the rarest types of corals, it is advisable to visit Ras Muhamed Nature Reserve. There you can buy an excursion on a yacht to one of the islands and spend the whole day enjoying the beauty of the richest flora.
Such islands can be found in coastal areas, such as in Sharm, or in the open sea.
In Egypt, a lot of exciting things are offered. Excursions to the islands with corals are designed for the whole day.
You will be able to independently explore all the beauties of the underwater world. Further from coastline, on islands, water world seems untouched and surprisingly varied.
Here are a few of the many famous coral islands Egypt:
Tiran Island
This - beautiful place for snorkeling and diving. Here in the strait there are several coral reefs. Intricate corals, shells, sponges, gorgonians grow on them. There are frequent meetings with representatives of the aquatic fauna. You can watch dolphins and turtles. The excursion program involves snorkeling.
Islands Brothers
They are also called El Akhawain. These are two small islands in the northern part of the Egyptian coast, located in the open sea.
The islands are represented by the tops of two huge reef peaks. This is one of the largest reefs in the area.
Near the islands, an unprecedented diversity of coral population flourishes, which densely stuck to all the slopes of the reefs. At a depth in the zone of strong currents, favorable conditions have been created for species such as eight-pointed gorgon and soft, stony corals.
Rocky Island
The island is located 50 km from the Egyptian coast. This islet is highly prized by divers for its steep walls and narrow, sloping sandbar that is open to strong sea currents.
On the border, the reef has many narrow coves, caves and kinks. The coral growth here is lush, not spoiled by anyone. It is distinguished by the presence of soft species and fragile luminous forms. Stony corals are found everywhere, stony corals are visible here, and along the wall there are gorgonians, as well as eight-pointed corals.
Hotels with coral reefs in Egypt
Hurghada
The beaches in Hurghada are mostly sandy, the entry into the sea is smooth and convenient, especially for children or those who cannot swim.
Coral reef is not available in all hotels. But you can enjoy a boat ride to the nearest reef.
Here are some hotels with the best reefs in Hurada:
Carols Makadi Resort 5*- This hotel has a diving center on the beach. There is a very beautiful underwater world.
Iberotel Arabella 4*- located in a small cove. The bay is separated from the sea. Suitable for recreation lovers of coastal reefs. They are stretched all over the beach here.
Iberotel Makadi Beach 4*- They offer dives. There are several unique and beautiful places.
«Magic Life Kalawy Imperial 5*»- Close to coral reefs. The hotel is popular with divers.
As well as:
Zahabia 4*;
« Coral Beach Rotana Resort» 4* (one of the best reef);
Arabia Azur 4*;
Arabella Azur 4*;
Bel Air Azure" 4*;
«Grand Azur Horizont» 4*.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharks Bay is famous for its coral reefs.
Diving lovers are accommodated in hotels:
"Concorde El Salam", ;
Island View Resort, ;
Savoy Sharm El Sheikh
Reef Oasis 5*
The distance to the airport is 14 km, to Naama Bay - 7 km, on the coastline.
The buildings are one- or two-story, there are no elevators. Rooms - 628 rooms.
All inclusive food system. Three restaurants, five bars. There is a disco, sports events are held. Seven outdoor pools, two of which are heated. There is kids club, teen club, playground with attractions for children.
Tropicana Grand Azure 5*
The best in the price-quality category.
The area is large and green. Great animation. The entrance to the sea is only on the pontoon. There is a coral reef. And of course the Black House disco and animation shows!
Coral Beach Montazah 4*
This is a four-star hotel located in a quiet bay of Sharq Bay. Tourists are attracted here by untouched reefs. It is interesting that ships do not sail here. Therefore, these places are considered a real paradise for diving enthusiasts. The hotel has a professional diving school.
Why are corals dangerous in Egypt?
It is dangerous to swim among corals, you should not forget about it.
Coral sponges are poisonous. Small, inconspicuous poisonous arrows are thrown out immediately after a person touches. As a result, redness on the skin, itching, blisters and hematomas may appear. Temperature rise is possible.
It is clear that such troubles can significantly spoil the rest.
But, if you prudently take care of the necessary means of protection, you will be safe. Because corals don't move!
On any beach, you will be advised to purchase special safety shoes. It can be plastic or rubber, it is comfortable and practical, you can swim in it. In these slippers you will be safe.
Such slippers are sold in Egyptian stores.
But in addition to buying shoes, you need to understand a few important rules:
“You don’t need to step on the corals. The leg can fall into the crevice between the corals and get hurt;
- Corals are covered with slime, so if you step on them, you can slip;
- You can't touch the corals.
If the trouble still happened, then, first of all, immediately contact the hotel's medical staff.
Steps you can take on your own:
- treatment of the damaged area of \u200b\u200bthe skin with food vinegar;
- lubricate the wounds with synthomycin emulsion.
Buy corals in Egypt
, donated by the Red Sea, everyone really wants to bring home.
You can purchase and export any souvenirs made from corals or shells. It is advisable to keep the receipt.
The export of live corals is prohibited by law in the country. There is a heavy fine for violation. But, if you bought coral in a store, it is packaged, there is a check, then there will be no problems. If you want to take shells with you, you can also buy them in the store.
The Catlin Seaview Survey is studying the health of coral reefs and their impact on global warming. As part of this project, these amazing photographs of coral reefs and their inhabitants were collected.
(Total 28 photos)
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2. Warming waters, sea acidification and increasing storms are all bad for the health of coral reefs. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
3. Using a custom-designed 360-degree camera, teams of divers from the Catlin Seaview Survey create graphical data that will help scientists map the health of reefs and catalog their species. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
4. Great camera, isn't it? (Catlin Seaview Survey)
5. And at depth, divers will use these robots ... (Catlin Seaview Survey)
6. These robots can be controlled from a boat on the surface of the water. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
7. Thanks to these images, not only scientists, but also us mere mortals can now admire the beauty of coral reefs in the Virtual Dive program. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
8. This unique and innovative program gives us the opportunity to dive in and see what scientists see. You can "sail" yourself wherever you want, using the mouse and keyboard of your computer. And all this with the help of Google Street View. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
9. A team of scientists will collect data from the Great Barrier Reef until the end of December. The global report will take about three years to complete and will cover many of the world's coral reefs. The next study is planned to take place in the Philippines. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
10. "Christmas" worms. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
11. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
12. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
14. And take off each other - for a new avatar! (Catlin Seaview Survey)
15. Panorama of Heron Island. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
16. Apo Island in the Philippines. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
17. A team of divers to explore reefs at depth. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
18. And this is a camera for studying reefs in shallow water. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
19. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
20. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
21. In company with a stingray in the waters off Heron Island. (Catlin Seaview Survey)
Coral belongs to the same group of animals as jellyfish. Their bone remains form beautiful coral reefs in warm tropical and subtropical seas. The world's largest coral formation, the Great Barrier Reef is the most famous attraction in Queensland, Australia. Mexico has the world's second largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Reef, which begins at the Yucatan. Located in the southern part Pacific Ocean, Fiji's coral coast has the third largest reef, in the form of a coral barrier surrounding largest island country of Viti Levu.
Australia
The Great Barrier Reef stretches 1,800 miles along the Australian coast. Scientists believe that its age is about 30 million years. Heron Island is one of the bases convenient for reef research.
If you decide to go diving here, you will most likely encounter the dangers of marine life, such as man-eating sharks. However, there are many places where diving and swimming in beautiful gardens underwater paradise are safe.
On Heron Island, it would be better to admire the magnificent coral reefs from a boat equipped with a glass bottom. It will take your breath away looking at the many colorful and exquisite formations. You will see not only red, white and pink corals, but also green, lavender and blue. Combined with marine life such as tropical fish, shellfish, sponges, dolphins and turtles, the spectacle is truly breathtaking.
Coral reefs in Mexico - the oldest country on Earth
The Mesoamerican reef, with over 100 species of soft and hard corals, is almost 750 miles of coral gardens with a barrier fringing them. Water caribbean warm and transparent and beckoning divers and snorkelers to marvel at the marvelous coral and marine life.
The city of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, has a large lagoon that is a protected marine park. Nearby is the Sleeping Shark Cave, where you can see somnambulistic sharks. The most colorful reef of Cozumel is Cedar Pass, a great place for divers to dive, filled with marine life such as turtles, barracudas and eels. The other one is the Palansar Reef (also in Cozumel) which is a real coral garden of amazing colors, with underwater caves and corridors.
Republic of the Fiji Islands
Fiji is called the capital of delicate corals. The best coral reef is the Namena Marine Reserve. Jean-Michel Cousteau described this reef as the best dive site in the world. Consisting of 400 corals, this reef is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins and various whales. The two best attractions (respectively, two dive sites) here are the wall known as Grand Central Station ("Grand Central Station"), and the turrets called Chimneys ("Chimneys").
