Coral reefs are one of the most spectacular and diverse ecosystems on the planet. Home to a quarter of all species living in oceans and seas, they are the largest structures built by ecosystems on Earth. The wonder, intricacy, life and science of coral reefs is revealed in this stunning new book. Drawing on the latest research from around the world, Coral Reefs: Secret Cities of the Sea explores the importance of coral reefs for sea and coastal life.
Coral Reefs: Secret Cities of the Sea describes the diverse varieties of coral reef and explains how they are a resource of food, livelihood and coastal protection for many millions of people, and how they adapt to their ever-changing environment. It also looks at the role of exploration and the latest conservation methods, as well examining what is threatening their existence. It is illustrated with live reefs from around the world and Natural History Museum specimens, including corals of great significance collected on early and modern expeditions and many that have never been seen by the general public.
Foreword 5
1. Introducing the coral reef 6
2. Reef builders 20
3. Other reef inhabitants 40
4. Reefs through time 52
5. The importance to people 66
6. Threats to the reefs 80
7. Ecology and conservation 96
The Catlin Seaview survey 104
Index 108
Further information 111
Acknowledgements and picture credits 112