‘Secret’ coral reef teeming with wildlife found in Africa
Recommended for Middle Grades
‘Secret’ coral reef teeming with wildlife found in Africa
We have read about climate change killing off corals in many parts of the world.
In a piece of good news, scientists have discovered secret coral reefs off the coast of Kenya and Tanzania in Africa. Here, within an area of about 400 sq km, many sea creatures are thriving (living well). The coral sanctuary is a wildlife hotspot and has spinner dolphins, ancient fishes called coelacanths as well as dugongs.
Researchers believe that its location is in a cool spot in the ocean. This is helping to protect it and the surrounding marine life from the harmful effects of global warming.
This ‘secret’ coral reef is fed by cool water which comes from glaciers on Mount Kilimanjaro and the Usambara mountains. The cool water seems to protect the corals from the effects of global warming.
What is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in Tanzania. It is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain in the world.
Many scientists have been looking for coral reefs like this in the west Indian Ocean for many years. So, they are very excited by this find.
Coral reefs
A coral reef is a large underwater structure made of dead and living corals. Coral organisms (called polyps) are tiny, soft-bodied organisms related to sea anemones and jellyfish. Coral reefs are very important as they house many types of sea creatures and are a source of food for millions. They also protect coastlines from storms.
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