Everyday Science · 45 sec
Coral reef
The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.
The useful idea
- A living colony
Reefs are formed of colonies of coral polyps held together by calcium carbonate.
- A hard framework
corals secrete hard carbonate exoskeletons that support and protect the coral.
- A dense ecosystem
they provide a home for at least 25% of all marine species
Why this matters
Look for Coral reef the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Coral reef the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Coral reef?
- A living colony — correct
- A hard framework
- A dense ecosystem
Reefs are formed of colonies of coral polyps held together by calcium carbonate.