Coral reefs in photographs. Corals are the oldest creatures on Earth
Let's talk about corals - one of the most beautiful marine life.
Big barrier reef- the largest population of coral polyps that formed a reef system with a length of more than 2600 kilometers. The reef is located along north coast Australia. The Great Barrier Reef has over 2,900 independent reefs, 900 coral islands.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. About 400 species of corals, 1,500 species of fish and a variety of other animals and plants have been found here.
UNESCO has listed the Great Barrier Reef as a World Heritage Site.
Corals are the flowers of the sea. These corals from the Philippines really look like flowers.
Coelenterates from the island of Palau. Corals are unusual marine animals, representatives of the coelenterates, one of the most primitive types of living creatures on Earth. This is one of the oldest groups of multicellular organisms on Earth, they have existed for many millions of years. Corals are unusual in that they have the ability to form a strong calcareous skeleton that persists after the death of the animal and contributes to the formation of atolls and reefs.
Bright red sun coral. It grows up to 30 cm. It often lives at the entrance to underwater caves, on great depths ah, up to 30 meters.
Corals live in tropical and subtropical sea waters and live in water with a temperature of at least 21 degrees Celsius. Corals come in different colors (pink, red, blue, white, black), their color depends on the composition and amount of organic compounds. More than 2500 varieties of corals are known.
Branching coral. Red corals are called “blood foam”, “flower of blood”, black ones are called “royal corals”. Pink, red and black corals are considered the most valuable. The coral reef is a kind of magnet, attracting crabs, lobsters, mollusks, fish and scuba divers for various reasons.
Fluorescent green coral.
Anchor coral.
Coral reef in the Cayman Islands. Coral reefs are calcareous geological structures formed by coral polyps and some types of algae. total area coral reefs in the world exceeds 27 million km². They are located mainly in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. About 1/3 of the world's coral reefs have already been destroyed. With the current trend, some reefs will be destroyed by 2030.
soft corals in papua new guinea. The word "coral" in our mind is always associated with something hard, fragile. However, there are also soft corals, which, as the name suggests, lack a solid, hard skeleton. Soft corals can take quite large areas on the reef. Many species of soft corals shrink into shapeless clumps during the day, only to spread out at dusk. Therefore, their exquisite beauty can only be fully appreciated during a night dive.
Alcyonaria or soft corals are the most numerous order of eight-pointed corals. They are widely distributed in the seas and oceans, occurring from the polar regions to the equator and from the littoral to great depths.
Coral Reef:
Coral Reef:
Black (royal) corals in New Zealand. They create an underwater forest for colorful reef fish and can live for 300 years.
Soft corals:
Corals in the Komodo National Park, which is located in the middle of the Indonesian archipelago, and is a subject world heritage UNESCO:
mushroom corals:
Sea lilies on coral:
Christmas sea feathers:
hard coral:
Soft corals and clownfish:
Sea lily:
Red Gorgonian corals named after Medusa Gorgon:
Acropora tenuis coral:
Green coral acropora tenuis:
Other representatives of soft corals:
Soft purple coral:
Bright red soft coral.
Coral belongs to the same group of animals as jellyfish. Their bone remains form beautiful coral reefs in warm tropical and subtropical seas. The largest in the world coral formation The Great Barrier Reef is the most famous attraction in Queensland, Australia. Mexico has the second largest barrier reef in the world. mesoamerican reef starting at the Yucatan. Located in the southern part Pacific Ocean, Fiji's coral coast has the third largest reef, in the form of a coral barrier surrounding largest island country of Viti Levu.
Australia
The Great Barrier Reef stretches 1,800 miles along the Australian coast. Scientists believe that its age is about 30 million years. Heron Island is one of the bases convenient for reef research.
If you decide to go diving here, you will most likely encounter dangers. marine life, such as, for example, a man-eating shark. However, there are many places where diving and swimming in beautiful gardens underwater paradise are safe.
On Heron Island, it would be better to admire the magnificent coral reefs from a boat equipped with a glass bottom. It will take your breath away looking at the many colorful and exquisite formations. You will see not only red, white and pink corals, but also green, lavender and blue. Combined with marine life such as tropical fish, shellfish, sponges, dolphins and turtles, the spectacle is truly breathtaking.
Coral reefs in Mexico - the oldest country on Earth
The Mesoamerican reef, with over 100 species of soft and hard corals, is almost 750 miles of coral gardens with a barrier fringing them. Water caribbean warm and transparent and beckoning divers and snorkelers to marvel at the marvelous coral and marine life.
The city of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, has a large lagoon that is a protected marine park. Nearby is the Sleeping Shark Cave, where you can see somnambulistic sharks. The most colorful reef of Cozumel - Cedar Pass, perfect place for diving divers, filled with marine life such as turtles, barracudas and eels. The other one is the Palansar Reef (also in Cozumel) which is a real coral garden of amazing colors, with underwater caves and corridors.
Republic of the Fiji Islands
Fiji is called the capital of delicate corals. The best coral reef is Namena marine reserve. Jean-Michel Cousteau described this reef as the best dive site in the world. Consisting of 400 corals, this reef is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins and various whales. The two best attractions (respectively, two places to dive) here are the wall known as Grand Central Station ("Grand Central Station"), and the turrets called Chimneys ("Chimneys").
let's talk about corals- the oldest creatures on Earth and one of the most beautiful marine life.
Great Barrier Reef- the largest population of coral polyps that formed a reef system with a length of more than 2600 kilometers. The reef is located along the northern coast of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef has over 2,900 independent reefs and 900 coral islands.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. About 400 species of corals, 1,500 species of fish and a variety of other animals and plants have been found here.
UNESCO has listed the Great Barrier Reef as a World Heritage Site. (Photo by Nicole Duplaix):
Corals are the flowers of the sea. These corals from the Philippines really look like flowers. (Photo by Tim Laman):
Corals are unusual marine animals, representatives of the coelenterates - one of the most primitive types of living creatures on Earth. This is one of the oldest groups of multicellular organisms on Earth, they have existed for many millions of years. Corals are unusual in that they have the ability to form a strong calcareous skeleton that persists after the death of the animal and contributes to the formation of atolls and reefs.
It grows up to 30 cm. It often lives at the entrance to underwater caves, at shallow depths, up to 30 meters. (Photo by Heather Perry):
Corals live in tropical and subtropical marine waters and live in water with a temperature of at least 21 degrees Celsius. Corals come in different colors (pink, red, blue, white, black), their color depends on the composition and amount of organic compounds. More than 2500 varieties of corals are known. (Photo by Tim Laman):
Red corals are called "blood foam", "flower of blood", black - "royal corals". Pink, red and black corals are considered the most valuable. The coral reef is a kind of magnet, attracting crabs, lobsters, mollusks, fish and scuba divers for various reasons. (Photo by Heather Perry):
. (Photo by Tim Laman):
(Photo by Tim Laman):
In the Cayman Islands. Coral reefs are calcareous geological structures formed by coral polyps and some types of algae. The total area of coral reefs in the world exceeds 27 million km². They are located mainly in the Pacific and Indian oceans. About 1/3 of the world's coral reefs have already been destroyed. With the current trend, some reefs will be destroyed by 2030. (Photo by Raul Touzon):
In Papua New Guinea. The word "coral" in our mind is always associated with something solid. , fragile. However, there are also soft corals, which, as the name suggests, lack a solid, hard skeleton. Soft corals can occupy fairly large areas on a reef. Many species of soft corals shrink into shapeless clumps during the day, only to spread out at dusk. Therefore, their exquisite beauty can only be fully appreciated during a night dive. (Photo by Wolcott Henry):
Alcyonaria or soft corals- the most numerous order of eight-pointed corals. They are widely distributed in the seas and oceans, occurring from the polar regions to the equator and from the littoral to great depths. (Photo by Wolcott Henry):
in New Zealand. They create an underwater forest for colorful reef fish and can live for 300 years. (Photo by Brian Skerry):
Corals in the National park Komodo, which is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
And clown fish
Named in honor of Medusa Gorgon:
Green acropora tenuis coral:
Another representatives soft corals:
Soft violet coral:
bright red soft coral:
Egypt - start ancient civilization, "pearl of the east", a blessed land. This is the country of the sun and the warm sea.
Egypt is huge Arab country occupying part Sinai Peninsula And large area North Africa. Part of Egypt is hilly or sandy desert interspersed with oases. The remaining small part is the delta and valley of the Nile River, inhabited by 65 million people.
here is mild, subtropical. Warm sea, upscale hotels, many tourist routes able to make your vacation in this country unforgettable and exciting.
Coral reefs in Egypt
Diversity underwater world in the Red Sea is a godsend for those who like to enjoy underwater beauties. This is a pearl that attracts diving enthusiasts. Even beginners inexperienced in underwater sports, getting to the resorts of Egypt for the first time, become true connoisseurs of the indescribable beauties of the Red Sea. It offers vacationers to enjoy the contemplation of a huge number of species of fish, there are about one hundred and fifty types of corals.
All wealth sea depths— are national treasure. The authorities of the country show attention and concern for the preservation of national wealth. Therefore, causing any harm to the flora and fauna of the underwater world is subject to large fines and certain sanctions.
In some places, coral reefs are located along the coast. They amaze with a variety of shapes and colors. Corals can be branched, flat, round, dark blue to pale pink. It is noteworthy that only living corals are colored. After death and loss of soft integumentary tissues, corals leave a white-calcium skeleton.
What are corals
This is a class of invertebrates marine type cnidarians. Their polyps, living at depths, in warm tropical seas, feed on plankton. The temperature of the water where corals live must be at least twenty degrees Celsius. Coral islands, like reefs, are formed by large accumulations of corals.
They are called the sea "treasures" of Egypt. This is a real marine oasis.
Other articles on Egypt:
We will tell you what can be remembered in one of the most ancient countries in the world.
Going to rest, do not forget to get acquainted with the weather.
We decided to relax in, find out the most favorable places for this.
Where are the best corals in Egypt
South Sinai- this is a huge expanse for diving enthusiasts, stretching from Sharm el-Sheikh to the Ras Muhammad National Park. The Strait of Tiran stretches here, with a series of various coastal reefs.
Ras Muhammad Reserve stretched from Sinai to the depths of the Red Sea. There are three main areas where diving centers are concentrated.
The most famous area is called Shark Reef.
It forms the top of an underwater mountain that rises off the coast. It is separated from the land by a shallow strait. It is known for its sheer wall, which goes deeper than fifty meters. The coral thickets here amaze with their density and splendor. They are especially visible on flat and small areas. The coral species found here are Dendronephthya and Acropora, Gorgon corals, disc and head corals.
Dedelus Reef
Located along the coast of Egypt towards Saudi Arabia.
This is an isolated small reef. In depth, it descends to seventy meters. The concentration of active growth of corals is observed here from the western slope.
Marsa Alam
The resort prides itself on its main attraction, its pristine coral coast. The water here is crystal clear and very rich in flora and fauna. A huge advantage of the resort is peace and quiet, beautiful coastal reefs. Here is a famous diving school in all of Egypt. This is a great place to dive.
Abu Dabbab has a huge number of corals, forming dense pillars that rise to the surface of the sea.
Elphistone rightly called the pearl of corals. It is small in size. Its sheer walls go to great depths. They are just covered with all sorts of corals of different types.
Shaab Samadai- the shape of this reef is similar to a horseshoe, which distinguishes it from the rest. It has an impressive size. Differs in the richness of the underwater world.
Shaab Sharm- located 8 km. from Marsa Alam. Oche
H is a large hammer-shaped reef. It is covered with thickets of corals. Scuba diving enthusiasts noted as a place with a huge wealth of the underwater world.
Where are the best corals in Egypt in Hurghada
In the water surroundings, there are about forty places that are distinguished by a variety of fauna, flora and relief. Each of them is unique.
Here are some of the most famous:
Small Giftun
This is a coral sanctuary owned by National Park"Giftun". Gardens of corals, gorgonians grow on the eastern side of the island.
Abu Ramada Hulk. It is popular for its sheer wall, which goes seventy meters deep. There is an underwater ten-meter through cave - this is an interesting tunnel for divers in the reef. WITH north side"Abu Ramada" is a beautiful plateau. A little to the north there is a wide cave, popular with divers. Despite the strong currents characteristic of these places, it is the most attractive for divers due to the extraordinary beauty of the plateau and the coral wall. But best place counts South side. Here you can dive in any weather, almost complete protection from winds and currents.
"Reef Carless"- known for his lush coral garden and two coral towers. Carless is appreciated by the variety of relief, although it is the most remote reef in the vicinity of Hurghada. It stands on the open sea. It doesn't come out of the water.
"El Fanadir"- the longest reef in the vicinity of Hurghada, with a length of more than two km.
Where are the best corals in Egypt at
There are reefs almost everywhere in this area. But there are several places where they are most picturesque.
The brightest can be called Bay "Ras Um Sid". Its coral reefs are among the most magnificent. In some places, the coast line descends smoothly into the depths. And the reef itself goes deep into sixty meters.
It deserves to be called the second in beauty and sophistication. The reef is very beautiful and lively.
The most beautiful corals in Egypt on the islands
However, in order to see the rarest types of corals, it is advisable to visit Ras Muhamed Nature Reserve. There you can buy an excursion on a yacht to one of the islands and spend the whole day enjoying the beauty of the richest flora.
Such islands can be found in coastal zones, as, for example, in Sharm, or on the high seas.
In Egypt, a lot of exciting things are offered. Excursions to the islands with corals are designed for the whole day.
You will be able to independently explore all the beauties of the underwater world. Further from coastline, on islands, water world seems untouched and surprisingly diverse.
Here are a few of Egypt's many famous coral islands:
Tiran Island
This - beautiful place for snorkeling and diving. Here in the strait there are several coral reefs. Intricate corals, shells, sponges, gorgonians grow on them. There are frequent meetings with representatives of the aquatic fauna. You can watch dolphins and turtles. Excursion program involves snorkelling.
Islands Brothers
They are also called El Akhawain. These are two small islands in the northern part of the Egyptian coast, located in the open sea.
The islands are represented by the tops of two huge reef peaks. This is one of the largest reefs in the area.
Near the islands, an unprecedented diversity of coral population flourishes, which densely stuck to all the slopes of the reefs. At a depth in the zone of strong currents, favorable conditions have been created for species such as eight-pointed gorgon and soft, stony corals.
Rocky Island
The island is located 50 km from the Egyptian coast. This islet is highly valued by divers for its steep walls and narrow slope. sandbar which is open to strong sea currents.
On the border, the reef has many narrow coves, caves and kinks. The coral growth here is lush, not spoiled by anyone. It is distinguished by the presence of soft species and fragile luminous forms. Stony corals are found everywhere, stony corals are visible here, and along the wall there are gorgonians, as well as eight-pointed corals.
Hotels with coral reefs in Egypt
Hurghada
The beaches in Hurghada are mostly sandy, the entry into the sea is smooth and convenient, especially for children or those who cannot swim.
Coral reef is not available in all hotels. But you can enjoy a boat ride to the nearest reef.
Here are some hotels best reefs in Khurad:
Carols Makadi Resort 5*- This hotel has a diving center on the beach. There is a very beautiful underwater world.
Iberotel Arabella 4*- located in a small cove. The bay is separated from the sea. Suitable for recreation lovers of coastal reefs. They are stretched all over the beach here.
Iberotel Makadi Beach 4*- They offer dives. There are several unique and beautiful places.
«Magic Life Kalawy Imperial 5*»- Close to coral reefs. The hotel is popular with divers.
And:
Zahabia 4*;
"Coral Beach Rotana Resort" 4 * (one of the best reef);
Arabia Azur 4*;
Arabella Azur 4*;
Bel Air Azure" 4*;
«Grand Azur Horizont» 4*.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharks Bay is famous for its coral reefs.
Diving lovers are accommodated in hotels:
"Concorde El Salam", ;
Island View Resort, ;
Savoy Sharm El Sheikh
Reef Oasis 5*
The distance to the airport is 14 km, to Naama Bay - 7 km, on the coastline.
The buildings are one- or two-story, there are no elevators. Rooms - 628 rooms.
All inclusive food system. Three restaurants, five bars. There is a disco, sports events are held. Seven outdoor pools, of which two are heated. There is a kids club, a teen club, a playground with attractions for children.
Tropicana Grand Azure 5*
The best in the price-quality category.
The area is large and green. Great animation. The entrance to the sea is only on the pontoon. Eat coral reef. And of course the Black House disco and animation shows!
Coral Beach Montazah 4*
This four star hotel located in quiet bay Shark Bay. Tourists are attracted here by untouched reefs. It is interesting that ships do not sail here. Therefore, these places are considered a real paradise for diving enthusiasts. The hotel has a professional diving school.
Why are corals dangerous in Egypt?
It is dangerous to swim among corals, you should not forget about it.
Coral sponges are poisonous. Small, inconspicuous poisonous arrows are thrown out immediately after a person touches. As a result, redness on the skin, itching, blisters and hematomas may appear. Temperature rise is possible.
It is clear that such troubles can significantly spoil the rest.
But, if you prudently take care of the necessary means of protection, you will be safe. Because corals don't move!
On any beach, you will be advised to purchase special safety shoes. It can be plastic or rubber, it is comfortable and practical, you can swim in it. In these slippers you will be safe.
Such slippers are sold in Egyptian stores.
But in addition to buying shoes, you need to understand a few important rules:
“You don’t need to step on the corals. The leg can fall into the crevice between the corals and get hurt;
- Corals are covered with slime, so if you step on them, you can slip;
- You can't touch the corals.
If the trouble still happened, then, first of all, immediately contact the hotel's medical staff.
Steps you can take on your own:
- treatment of the damaged area of \u200b\u200bthe skin with food vinegar;
- lubricate the wounds with synthomycin emulsion.
Buy corals in Egypt
, donated by the Red Sea, everyone really wants to bring home.
You can purchase and export any souvenirs made from corals or shells. It is advisable to keep the receipt.
The export of live corals is prohibited by law in the country. There is a heavy fine for violation. But, if you bought coral in a store, it is packaged, there is a check, then there will be no problems. If you want to take shells with you, you can also buy them in the store.
