In this episode of Saltwater Stories, we take a deep dive into the vibrant, mysterious world of coral reefs, often called the "rainforests of the sea." From the tiny coral polyps that build these massive underwater structures to the essential symbiosis with algae that gives reefs their color, we explore the fascinating biology and immense importance of coral reefs. But it's not all beauty – we also address the threats they face, like coral bleaching and climate change, and why protecting these ecosystems is more urgent than ever. Join us as we uncover how coral reefs not only support marine biodiversity but also hold potential medical breakthroughs and protect our coastlines.

Sources for Further Learning About Coral Reefs

1. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coral Reef Conservation Program – [NOAA Coral Reefs](https://coralreef.noaa.gov)

2. Australian Institute of Marine Science – [AIMS Research](https://www.aims.gov.au/)

3. The Coral Triangle Initiative – [Coral Triangle](https://coraltriangleinitiative.org)

4. The Nature Conservancy’s Coral Reef Program – [The Nature Conservancy](https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-insights/perspectives/why-are-coral-reefs-important/)

5. Coral Restoration Foundation – [Coral Restoration Foundation](https://coralrestoration.org/)

6. Smithsonian Ocean Portal – [Smithsonian Coral Reefs](https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/invertebrates/corals-and-coral-reefs)

7. World Resources Institute's Reefs at Risk project – [Reefs at Risk](https://www.wri.org/initiatives/reefs-risk)

8. International Coral Reef Society – [ICRS](https://coralreefs.org/)

9. UNESCO World Heritage Marine Programme – [UNESCO Marine Programme](https://whc.unesco.org/en/marine-programme/)

10. Marine Conservation Institute – [Marine Conservation Institute](https://marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/coral-reefs/)