Reefs of the Florida Keys

Almost 6,000 coral reefs live in the shallow waters off the Florida Keys. Since 1984, ten large ships have crashed into the delicate reefs. Thanks to a new treaty, such crashes may never happen again.

Now, big ships have to steer clear of the coral reefs in a new, protected zone. If they don't, they might have to pay a $100,000 fine.

Coral Cities

Coral reefs look like large rocky plants. They are actually made of the skeletons of tiny animals called coral polyps (PAWL ips). Polyps are related to jellyfish. They build skeletons on the outside of their bodies for protection.

Thousands of polyps live together. Over the years, as the polyps die, their skeletons pile up to make a coral reef. Colorful plants, and animals such as lobsters, turtles, and fish, live in and around coral reefs. There, they can find food and shelter.

Rain Forests of the Sea

Coral reefs are important to life in the ocean. Scientists have called coral reefs “the rain forests of the sea” because so many creatures live in them.

Just like rain forests all over the world, coral reefs are threatened by human activity. Careless divers damage reefs by kicking them when they swim by. With one kick, a diver can destroy the homes of many polyps. Pollution and changes in water temperature also kill coral polyps.

Giant tanker ships can do even more damage. If a big ship runs into a reef, it can wipe out the reef. Scientists and government officials hope the new law will help protect the reefs from these dangers.