The world of the coral reef is one of the most diverse ecosystems on our planet. The sheer number of life forms in this environment rivals even that of the tropical rain forests. Built over thousands of years by tiny calcium-producing organisms, the reefs are a haven for countless thousands of life forms, some of which seem totally alien in form. It is a fairy tale world of bright colors and ever changing patterns. Only on the reef can one find living examples from nearly every group of organisms representing a billion years of evolution. Some of the oldest reefs today began growing over 25 million years ago. Diving on a coral reef is like entering another world. We have, in fact, spent less time and money exploring the world's oceans than we have the surface of the Moon. Every day brings the discovery of an exciting new species. It is a world of never-ending wonders. But it is also an extremely fragile environment, and it is in very real danger of disappearing forever. Mankind's ignorance and carelessness is beginning to have a noticeable impact on the world's reefs. From the Florida Keys to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the damage is becoming apparent. If we wish to share this wondrous world with our children, we must take steps to conserve it. The first step to saving our reefs is education. This section of Sea and Sky is a meager attempt by myself to bring some of the splendors of the sea to the public. Please click on one of the categories below for a brief introduction to the fantastic life forms in each group. You may also use the menu on the left to navigate through the world of the reef.

Sponges		Corals & Anemones		Sea Worms		Echinoderms		Crustaceans

Mollusks		Reef Fishes		Unusual Fishes		Sharks & Rays		Sea Reptiles		Marine Mammals

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Fabio Ehrengruber and Alex Kerstitch.  These photos may not be reproduced or reused without permission from the individuals holding the copyrights. Click here for a list of credits & sources