ABSTRACT

Coral reefs are found largely in warm water regions of the world, that is, in the tropical belt and areas such as Southern Florida and Japan that lie in the path of warm-water currents. The stony or scleractinian corals that are the major constructors of coral reefs require specific environmental conditions for optimal growth. Coral reefs are not found in areas subject to freshwater runoff. The large freshwater flow from the Amazon River prevents the reefs of the Caribbean area from extending southward along the coast of South America. The sensitivity to environmental change of reef-building corals suggests that coral reef areas would be quite susceptible to the effects of pollution. Coral reefs are most often found in tropical areas characterized by episodic high rainfall and consequent high volume runoff events. The process of sedimentation may also constitute a significant stress on coral reef ecosystems.