The Rainforests of the Sea

A coral reef is a collection of biological communities making one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. For this reason coral reefs are often referred to as the Rainforests of the Seas for their astounding richness of life. Due to their structural complexity, corals are one of the most productive ecosystems on earth, providing important services to mankind including fisheries, coastal protection, medicines, recreation and tourism.

The World land trust WLT and its local partners are committed to saving critically threatened habitats, and their wildlife, throughout the world. And by saving vital habitats we are also helping save Life on Earth. Mangroves protect vulnerable coastal communities and provide essential spawning grounds for fish and invertebrates, while coral reefs slow down potentially damaging tidal waves as well as acting as sensitive indicators of water quality. Coral reefs are also considered ‘medicine chests’ of the future, as scientists believe that their organisms could well hold the key to cures for cancer, and coral skeletons are already being used as bone substitutes in reconstructive bone surgery. Coral reefs are home to a huge concentration of wildlife and it is estimated that one-third of all fish species depend on coral for their existence.
Going on Holiday? Don’t buy local jewellery, hair slides or sunglasses made from coral or tortoise shell, or bottles of turtle oil or conch shells.
Conch, formerly a major food source, is now considered endangered due to over-fishing, and hawksbill turtle is endangered, mainly as a result of illegal hunting. Buying anything made of coral risks the future of nearly a million species that depend on the reef for survival.

Please make a donation today to the WLT’s Reef & Mangrove Appeal. For a donation of £25 or more you will receive a personalised certificate, either for yourself or on behalf of a loved one, to record your support. We will also send you and your gift recipient WLT News giving updates on all WLT’s projects, twice yearly. Makes a great Birthday or Christmas gift.
World land trust