The Coral Reefs of Florida
Posted By admin on March 18, 2009
These reefs extend from near Stuart, on the Atlantic coast, to the Dry Tortugas, west of Key West, in the Gulf of Mexico. The most prolific reef development happens seaward of the Florida Keys.
The reefs here are spectacular and rival those of a lot of Caribbean areas. Reef expansion is slow ; guesses range between one to sixteen feet each one thousand years.
Hard corals are the major reef designers. An individual colony grows one-half to 7 inches a year, depending on the species. The animals benefit from the energy the plants provide thru photosynthesis.
The plants are defended in the coral tissues and gain nutrients from animal wastes. They form a breakwater for the diagonally opposite coast, providing natural tempest protection. They are imperative to southeast Florida’s economy.
The attractions of the coral reef communities contribute significantly to the total price of Florida’s fisheries.
Each year careless boaters run aground, destroying coral colonies that are centuries old. Seen from the surface, reefs have a novel golden-brown color. If you see brown, you could be about to run aground. Don’t employ the anchor without delay in coral. Typically there are sandy areas close by ; anchor in the sand. In these areas, tie up to the buoys, rather than anchoring. Don’t dispose of rubbish, bilge washings and other debris on or close to the reefs. Florida coral reefs, with whom we share the seas, are heavy, unique natural resources. Be a responsible visitor – insure the ongoing vitality of Florida’s coral reefs. The tropical setting in Florida’s reefs draws millions of visitors yearly. To attenuate human damage to the corals, everybody’s cooperation is required. When diving or snorkeling, look, but do not touch. Don’t grasp, stand or sit on living coral. You will damage the coral and hurt yourself in the method. It is against the law to gather, crop or sell Florida corals in state and diagonally opposite Fed. waters.
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