What is the main source of marine biodiversity? The main source of marine biodiversity is coral reefs. Coral reefs are home to about 25% of marine species, despite occupying less than 1% of the ocean floor. Coral reefs provide a diverse and dynamic habitat for a variety of marine species, including fish, crustaceans, sponges, mollusks, and many others. They also serve as important breeding and feeding grounds for many commercially important fish species. In addition, coral reefs provide many ecosystem services, including coastal protection, nutrient cycling, and support for recreational and tourism activities. However, coral reefs are facing significant threats from human activities, including climate change, overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction. As a result, coral reefs are declining at an alarming rate, with some estimates suggesting that 60% of the world's coral reefs are at risk of being lost. This loss of coral reefs will have significant impacts on marine biodiversity and ecosystem services. It is important to protect and conserve coral reefs to maintain the incredible biodiversity and ecosystem services they provide. This can be done through a variety of measures, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change, establishing marine protected areas to reduce fishing pressure, reducing pollution, and engaging in sustainable tourism practices. References: - Hughes, T. P., Barnes, M. L., Bellwood, D. R., Cinner, J. E., Cumming, G. S., Jackson, J. B., ... & Sheppard, C. R. (2017). Coral reefs in the Anthropocene. Nature, 546(7656), 82-90. - Mora, C., Tittensor, D. P., Adl, S., Simpson, A. G., & Worm, B. (2011). How many species are there on Earth and in the ocean?. PLoS biology, 9(8), e1001127. - Spalding, M. D., Ravilious, C., & Green, E. P. (Eds.). (2001). World atlas of coral reefs. University of California Press.
