Humans and the Future of Corals
You may or may not be aware of the fact that our coral reefs may be gone in another 50 years. Before that though, you will be feeling the effect of the diminishing reefs throughout the world. “Really?”, you say, “Does it really matter if we don’t have any coral reefs?” That answer to your question is a definite YES!
What I want to share with you the importance that coral reefs play in our everyday lives. Yep, that is correct, everyday. For something that is far out in our oceans, often unseen by people, corals have an amazing role in the health of our planet.
Economic Value
Coral reefs support both commercial and subsistence fisheries, as well as jobs in tourism and recreation. According to the National Marine Fisheries Service, the commercial value of just U.S. fisheries from coral reefs is over $100 million. The coral reefs are important as both fish habitats and fish nurseries. Covering less than 1% of the earth’s surface, they provide local economies with billions of dollars through diving and snorkeling tours, recreational fishing trips, hotels, restaurants, and other business based on or near reef ecosystems.
Medicines
The rainforest has been known for years to contain valuable resources in the medical field. Coral reefs have only recently been discovered to also be rich as a resource for potential new pharmaceuticals to treat cancer, arthritis, asthma, ulcers heart disease to name just a few.
“Studies show that calcium from coral could help fight against forms of cancer, against the effects of diabetes, arthritis, Cardiac diseases, osteoporosis, eczema, Alzheimer’s disease , fibromyalgia, a high cholesterol, muscle cramps, kidney stones, gallstones, gout, indigestion, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, hiatal hernia, the hypertension, headaches and much, much more.”
Nutrition
According to NOAA, the average American ate 16 pounds of fish and shellfish in 2017. U.S. dietary guidelines recommend eating at least 8 ounces of seafood per week. Fish and shellfish are an important source of minerals, vitamins, and protein. I won’t go into details about which fish are best, the mercury problems and such, but we are a fish-eating nation. Corals contribute to the diversity and health of our ocean communities.
Natural Buffer Zone
Coral reefs also serve as an important shoreline buffer against waves, storms, and floods. This helps to minimize the loss of life, property damage and erosion. The well-being of coastal communities is dependent on these coral reefs and their continued well-being.
No coral reefs means no…
…fish diversity. Get ready for a lot of jellyfish sushi!
…healthy ecosystems, diminishing fisheries, tourism and recreational jobs.
…large sandy beaches.
…resources for medical research. Corals are showing to be full of promise, yet if they are gone, so are possible cures and treatments for diseases.
You can make a difference!
Support organizations dedicated to conservation! For example, 10% of all Nerdtistic Park proceeds go to support the Coral Reef Alliance.
Here are two hashtags you can use for social media: #Coral ReefAwareness and #SavingSpecies
Reduce your single-use plastic use.
Be an advocate! Call, email, and send letters to your elected officials to let them know you are passionate about ocean conservation.