Saving the Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are underwater structures made from calcium carbonate secreted by corals.
Coral reefs are colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few
nutrients.

The coral reefs are important to our country’s fishery resources. Unfortunately, we
continue to destroy them. Coral reefs are resources of materials to sustain life. Hence,
they must be saved.

Corals reefs can be saved through the following ways:

Sea grasses protect the coral reefs.

They reduce the movement of water.
They regulate the chemical
composition of coastal waters and
sediment. Also, they maintain the
capability of the coast to support life.
Because of the importance of sea
grasses to the growth and
development of coral reefs, they have
to be conserved or saved.

Controlled logging activities also

protect the coral reefs. Controlled
logging activities can prevent siltation.

Industrial and agricultural wastes

control is another way of saving the
coral reefs. When the coastal water is
not polluted due to waste, coral reefs
will grow.
 Siltation control also protects the
coral reefs. When silt covers the coral
reefs, they are deprived of oxygen and
food materials and eventually die.

Reforestation is another way of

saving the coral reefs. Reforestations
also control siltation.

Good fishing methods do not

destroy the coral reefs. The coral reefs
are allowed to serve as breeding and
nursery grounds for fish.

Participating actively in efforts to save the coral reefs is a timely and good practice. The
efforts to save coral reefs must be a concern of all.
 Diagram on How to Save the Coral Reefs

Science for Daily Use

Textbook in Grade 5 pg. 91-93