ABSTRACT

Coral reefs are a vital contributor to the success of the tourism industry in the Florida Keys supporting recreational fishing, diving and snorkelling businesses. Despite their economic and recreational value, the sustainability of the reefs faces a myriad of threats. These threats to the Florida Keys’ coral reef ecosystem are identified and examined, and an overview is provided as to how such threats have been addressed to date. The health of the coral reefs in the Florida Keys is clearly in danger and there is a pressing need for a solution that ensures their long-term health and sustainability.