Présentation Marine

Presentation

corals

hello all and thanks us too listen !

introducing

What are corals ?

Corals are marine are invertebrates that belong to a group called Cnidaria, which also includes jellyfish and anemones. Corals are often mistaken for plants or even rocks, but they are actually animals. They consist of tiny, soft-bodied creatures called polyps, which form a calcium carbonate skeleton to protect themselves. When thousands of polyps connect and grow together, they create the magnificent, hard structures we know as coral reefs.

Index

5. Threats to Coral Reefs

1. Introduction to Corals

6. Measures to Protect Corals

2. Formation of Coral Reefs

7. Exemple of stats and association

3.Symbiosis with Algae

8. Conclusion

4. Importance of Coral Reefs

Formation of Coral Reefs

Polyps grow very slowly, at a rate of about 1 to 10 centimeters per year,

Coral reefs take an incredibly long time to form.t hese structures form in shallow, warm waters, typically in tropical regions. They thrive where sunlight can penetrate and nourish the algae that live inside them.

The oldest reefs we have today are estimated to be around 5,000 to 10,000 years old

Symbiosis with Algae

corals are home for many species

through photosynthesis, the algae produce food and oxygen,

This symbiotic relationship is also what gives coral its vibrant colors

Why Coral Reefs Are Important

Natural barrier

They occupy less than 1% of the ocean floor

Coral reefs also serve as barriers against storms and erosion, protecting coastal communities

societal benefics

Biodiversity

support about 25% of all marine life, including fish, crabs, sea turtles, and sharks.

they contribute to local economies through tourism, fishing, and even medicine

Threats to Coral Reefs

40%

90%

75%

+ info

+ info

+ info

COP29: More than 40 per cent of coral species face extinction

90% of coral reefs will be threatened by 2030

75% of the world’s coral reefs are currently threatened.

A reassessment of 892 warm-water, reef-building coral species has shown a decline since the last IUCN assessment back in 2008. Then, 30 per cent were found to be threatened, marking a further sharp decline in the species in recent years.

there are actions we can take to help protect coral reefs

How We Can Help

When visiting coral reefs, we should be mindful not to touch or disturb them

One way is to reduce our carbon footprint, which can help slow the rate of climate change and ocean acidification.

reducing plastic waste and using reef-safe sunscreens

support organizations focused on coral conservation

NUMBERS OF CORALS SPECIES WHICH ARE Threatening extinction

corals gardeners

With nurseries scattered throughout several islands and municipalities, Coral Gardeners is an association founded in 2017 and recognized as being of public utility in Polynesia. It is associated with a company with a mission to finance its actions in favor of the protection and preservation of coral reefs. In 2023, Coral Gardeners passed the symbolic mark of 100,000 corals planted and intends to triple this figure in 2024. Our partner La Dépêche de Tahiti takes stock of the situation with its creator Titouan Bernicot.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coral reefs are not only beautiful but also incredibly important for our planet's biodiversity and coastal protection. By understanding the threats they face and taking steps to reduce our impact, we can work towards preserving these fragile ecosystems for future generations

"Corals have not said their last word"

Thank you!