Coral Reef Biodiversity Loss

Abstract

Coral reef ecosystems are under increasing natural and anthropogenic pressures, despite their ecological significance and economic importance to mankind. The majority of land based activities and direct human use are borne by these shallow water areas, which interface between land masses and the open oceans. The objective of this paper is to give an overview of the value of coral reef ecosystems and the anthropogenic threats imposed on them, as well as to examine the interactions of coral reef ecological linkages to other coastal and marine habitats and the future of coral reef ecosystems. It is suggested that management measures for the preservation of reef systems must link coastal and marine systems, pay attention to socio-economic factors as well as institutional and legal ones, employ a cooperative approach, and be based on scientific advice.