The reefs are under threat—every coral reef on the planet could be gone within fifty years.

As one of the more sensitive parts of the world's ecosystem, coral is vulnerable to damage from many different sources. Human beings pose the greatest threat to the reefs, through both pollution and over-fishing of the oceans. Global warming is also a major threat, raising water temperatures and leading to coral bleaching. Industrial pollution, land development, and dynamite fishing also take massive tolls on the reefs. All of these factors and more combine to turn coral reefs from vibrant cradles of life to dry, bleached, dead skeletons.

Yet picture a world teeming with healthy coral reefs and schools of fish, an inspiration to all. Were the world's coral to be maintained, we could ensure the health of the oceans, natural systems and industries that depend on them far into the future. The majestic beauty of the world's coral reefs could be preserved for generations to come.


Coral reefs are dying rapidly, indicating the overall health of the planet. Photos by Eric Borneman.