Coral reefs support a phenomenal diversity of species and provide irreplaceable sources of food and shelter. Tropical rainforests play a similar role on the land.

Coral reef ecosystems support a variety of human needs. They are important for subsistence, fisheries, tourism, shoreline protection, and yield compounds that are important in the development of new medicines.

Open ocean ecosystems need coral reefs to supply nutrients. Coral reefs also support wide-ranging turtles and sharks.

Corals are an integral part of the reef and are especially vulnerable to human activities and to climate-related threats, such as mass bleaching and disease.

Corals have shown remarkable resilience through major climate events and sea level changes, giving hope for their continued survival.