Coral Reefs Survival Kit – The Guide To The Rainforests Of The Sea Introductory Letter Dear Reader, This introductory letter gives an insight into the purpose and explanation of the kit provided to explore coral reefs. The diverse variety of coral reefs and the vibrant colours and topography entice the viewer to explore until their hearts content. As coral reefs are depleting slowly, it is an incredible opportunity to view the coral reefs firsthand. Although coral reefs are threatened UNESCO and Greenpeace groups that are reviving coral reefs slowly nurture for them. Coral reefs are slowly recovering from the impacts of natural and man-made disasters. Coral reefs are a beauty to the eye, the vibrant colours and variety accounting for the inspirational journey of a lifetime. Warning – Do NOT touch the abundant environments, as they are prone to destruction from just the lightest touch. Map The physical map depicted below, displays the location of coral reefs internationally. Climate Coral reefs thrive in shallow, warm waters most commonly near land. Predominantly found in the tropics, they require a temperature of 21-30 degrees Celsius. The majority of coral reefs are found in waters up to 50m deep, as they do not rise into tide level to decrease the risk of exiting the water. They are usually found in waters of latitude 30 degrees north and 30 degrees south, as these are ideal temperatures for growth. For coral reefs to survive they must also rely on saltwater and zooxanthellae to assist their growth. Consequently, coral reefs become dependent and independent biomes. Biodiversity Coral reefs have an extremely productive biodiversity, hosting numerous plants and animals in complex and varied habitats that sustain life for a wide variety of creatures. They are a home to an abundant variety of living creatures such as algae, sponges, fish, invertebrates and other animals. Algae - algae chronically threatens coral reefs and its consequences to the ecosystem. Inhabiting a large percentage of area of surveyed locations, algae consist of turf algae, coralline algae and macro algae. Sponges - sponges are an essential role in the ensuring the ecosystem maintains function. It filters the organic produce secreted by corals and algae that are absorbed by corals in turn. Fish - the reasons for the vast diversity of 4000 species of fish remain controversial. Around 35 tons of fish are found every square kilometre of a coral reef unless damaged that will reduce the quantity. Invertebrates - numerous invertebrates, such as sea urchins and sea slugs, play a pivotal part in preventing algae from overrunning reefs. Other - although the main animals found in the prolific biodiversity of a coral reef are eminent, the other animals such as seabirds such as herons, monitor lizards and sea snakes are all another aspect of coral reefs that must be implied. Food & Water Sources As the usurpation of the coral reef cycle (including fish) is disallowed, food consumption will occur on the shore. As most coral reefs are near land, the food sources on the landmasses nearby are plentiful. The variety of seafood or contemporary dishes ranges significantly. If the presence of land is scarce than you will be provided with ration packs to eat. Water will not be an issue as coral reefs live in water and the water is plentiful. Although distillation onboard boats will need to take place, the water sources are substantial. Local Communities If you need further help or have enquiries, contact UNESCO or Greenpeace Society. If you need any assistance throughout the trip, numerous Ocean Portal Teams, which ensure the life of coral reefs are sustained, are found on the shore and will cater for your needs. Places such as Cairns will come into play when you visit the Great Barrier Reef and Honduras will help when you visit the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Islanders, such as Torres Strait Islanders, will provide information and supplies to survive in the abundant environments as well. Provided Oxygen Tanks Accommodation Hunger Buster Ration Packs (optional) What To Bring Wetsuit Swimmers Water Shoes Diving Goggles Warm Clothes Sleeping Bag or Mattress Pyjamas Thermal Jumper Flippers Torch Knife, Fork and Spoon Pocket Knife (optional) Tent/Hoochie Rope Boots Backpack for Daily Needs Sunscreen Insect Repellent No expensive items are to be brought to this trip. If you require the needs of an expensive device (such as a camera), it is in your control and ownership, not ours. For further enquiries, contact us. Phone - 0123456789 Website - jjcoralreefssurvivalkit.com/lk Blog - coralreefsareboss.com/lk