Coral ReefsToday many people do not see the need to preserve coral reefs. So, due to lack of appreciation for coral reefs, they are slowly disappearing. Many citizens do not realize the importance of these coral reefs, the species they host and the food webs that connect the ecosystems. Our American government has said repeatedly that it is doing everything it can to preserve and restore our coral reefs. However, how accurate is this statement? To answer these questions, we must first understand what a coral reef is and how it can be saved. A coral reef is scientifically defined as limestone ridges created by coral animals. These types of tiny animals are called coral polyps. Over time, coral polygons are produced and accumulate in the limestone. Within the cracks and crevices of the limestone reside thousands of species. Because there are so many different species living in the limestone, coral reefs make up some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. These ecosystems can only function in clear, warm salt water, which is usually found in tropical regions. These coral reefs are usually found in shallow water, so they are close to the surface. They are located in this environment so that there is enough sunlight for photosynthesis, which is important for the growth and development of coral reefs. There are examples of coral reefs found all over the Earth in tropical environments. These coral reefs are divided into three categories; fringes, reefs and atolls. Fringe reefs are relatively close to land and, unlike other reefs, do not have a lagoon area. These coral reefs are often found in the Caribbean. In the Caribbean, the Netherlands Antilles is a popular diving hot spot in Bonaire. In this cor...... half of the document ...... periodic control programs for different types of wastewater discharge. The EPA supports all actions that could help save our coral reefs or find the causes of the disappearance of our coral reefs. Throughout our government is doing a good job of finding information to help protect our coral reefs. However, the government can work to enforce these laws. Yes, the EPA has implemented a significant amount of programs designed solely to protect our coral reefs. However, another important aspect of saving our coral reefs is informing communities to help get involved and say what they personally can do. There is always more that people can do, but it all depends on how people, as individual citizens, react to government proposals to save our oceans. Overall, however, the government is managing the saving of our coral reefs in a well-designed way.