Coral Reefs and their Microbes

Coral reefs are highly diverse ecosystems vital for marine life and human societies, providing food, coastal protection, and livelihoods. Corals form calcium carbonate skeletons and depend on symbiotic microorganisms—mainly algae and bacteria—for energy, nutrients, and disease resistance. However, global warming, pollution, and overfishing are disrupting these partnerships, leading to coral bleaching and death. Protecting coral reef microbes is therefore essential for reef resilience and achieving sustainable development goals.