1. Coral reefs are made by tiny animals
Coral polyps are small animals that build hard skeletons. Over time, many skeletons form a reef.
2. Reefs are full of life
Fish, crabs, sea turtles, octopuses and many other animals find food and shelter around reefs.
3. Sunlight matters
Many reef-building corals grow in warm, clear and shallow water where sunlight can reach them.
4. Corals come in many shapes
Some look like branches, fans, brains, tables or soft waving fingers.
5. A reef is like a neighbourhood
Different animals use different spaces, just as families use different rooms in a home.
6. Some fish help keep reefs clean
Certain fish eat algae that might otherwise cover the coral.
7. Reefs protect coastlines
They can soften waves before those waves reach beaches and coastal communities.
8. Coral is alive
Although coral can look like colourful rock, the living polyps are animals.
9. Reefs need care
Cleaner oceans, less pollution and responsible choices help protect these special habitats.