Describe three examples of how healthy coral reef ecosystems are valuable to human society.

Economic Value: Healthy coral reefs contribute significantly to the economy. They are a major attraction for the tourism industry, especially in tropical locations. Tourists come to these areas to snorkel, dive, and enjoy the beauty of the reefs. This tourism generates billions of dollars worldwide and provides jobs for local communities. Additionally, reefs act as nurseries for many species of fish, supporting local and commercial fisheries.

Coastal Protection: Coral reefs act as natural barriers that protect coastal areas from storms, hurricanes, and erosion. They absorb the impact of waves, reducing the damage to coastal communities. Without these reefs, many coastal areas would be at a higher risk of flooding and storm damage.

Biodiversity and Medical Research: Coral reefs are home to a high level of marine biodiversity. They provide a habitat for a large variety of marine species. This biodiversity is not only important for ecological balance, but it also has potential benefits for medicine. Many drugs are derived from natural compounds found in marine species living in coral reefs. These include treatments for cancer, HIV, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions. Therefore, the health of coral reefs is directly linked to potential advancements in medical research.