Different reef types, depths, and zones within reefs are characterized by different coral assemblages and different responses to temperature stress and bleaching.

• There are corals in shallow lagoons, reef flats and reef crests. Others are found down the reef slope, and may only occur deeper than about 20 meters. Dominant corals and coral diversity differ in each assemblage.

* For example, sheltered reefs may have dense overlapping colonies of staghorn coral (Acropora) or large whorls of leafy corals (Montipora, Pachyseris, Echinopora) that are aesthetically pleasing, but have few species.

* Such reefs may be valuable for tourism, but are less so for conserving a representative range of biodiversity. They also tend to bleach readily and die.

• Distinct processes give rise to different coral reef communities; for example, seaward reefs endure greater wave stress than lagoon reefs. These distinct processes are reflected in variations of coral assemblages and zonation patterns.

• Some reef habitats are relatively unchanging, while others are constantly interrupted by wave stress or natural periodic exposure to air or freshwater.

• These habitats contribute different types and quantities of larvae to the reef system and may exhibit different susceptibility to bleaching.

It is important to identify the reef types and, as far as possible, the various coral communities, and to include multiple examples of each in the protected area where possible.