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CORAL REEFS AND
GLOBAL WARMING
BY ZEYNEP DEMIRHAN
Coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, often found in shallow
depths in tropical waters, usually in the pacific ocean. Coral reefs are the trees of the
oceans, providing the carbon balance in the ocean.
Carbon circulates between air, soil, water and living organisms. Gaseous carbon is
dissolved in the atmosphere and water as carbon dioxide.
Carbon in water content; it is stored inside Coral Reefs and aquatic creatures or in the
exoskeletons of crustaceans such as mussels.
Coral Reefs form a natural barrier against large ocean waves and tides, helping to protect
coastlines. The fish and other crustaceans contain are very important food and livelihoods
for humans.
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