Coral Reefs

Coral Reefs are a key geographical feature in The Bahamas. A coral reef is an underwater structure made of coral. A third of the coral reefs in the Caribbean are in The Bahamas and the Bahamas heavily rely on the ecosystem coral reefs provide. The coral reefs provide habitats for marine organisms, which leads to seafood, shoreline protection, employment through fishing, recreation, scientific research, commercial and medicine products, and a source of sand for beaches. One issue in The Bahamas is that the Corals need clear, shallow, and warm (790 F-810) salt water in order to do well. Changes in these things make the coral stressed which results in bleaching events. These bleaching events have become more frequent due to increased water temperatures. Because of this, there are more decreased lives in reef ecosystems, which can hurt The Bahamas. The Bahamas have 4 types of coral reefs, fringing reefs, barrier reefs, atolls, and patch reefs. In summary, the Bahamas coral reefs are stunning and provide so much to the Bahamas, such as safety, food, and jobs to its people. If you are visiting the Bahamas, coral reefs are a definite recommend, a stunning and relaxing place to visit. Some of the big ones include Andros Coral Reef, Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, and Clifton Heritage National Park's coral reef.

​