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Frequently Asked Questions
Coral
Reefs and Commerce
In the Florida Keys alone, it has been estimated that coral reefs contribute $440 million annually to the economy as a result of tourism; specifically, recreational diving, sport fishing, commercial fishing etc. In sum, coral reefs "are the foundation for a $1.3 billion tourism economy that provides over 13,600 jobs." (EMS webpage) Globally it is estimated that coral reefs are worth somewhere in the neighborhood of $375 billion annually. (Byant et al., 1998) -Environmental
Media Services. 2001. "Coral Reef Facts." -Bryant, D., Burke, L., McManus, J., and M. Spalding. 1998. "Reefs at Risk: A Map Based Indicator of Threats to the World’s Coral Reefs." World Resources Institure. Washington D.C. [top] How important are coral reefs to commercial and sport fishing? Coral reefs are home to more than one quarter of all the known marine fish species. When reefs are properly managed it is estimated that they can produce 15 tons of fish and other seafood per square kilometer per year!! From this data, one can immediately inductively draw conclusions as to the importance of reefs in sport fishing. Many marine game fish species, such as tarpon, groupers, snook, barracuda, dolphin to name a few utilize reef habitats for at least part of their life cycles. Thus, the survival of recreational and commercial fishing is extremely dependent upon the health of coral reefs. -Bryant, D., Burke, L., McManus, J., and M. Spalding. 1998. "Reefs at Risk: A Map Based Indicator of Threats to the World’s Coral Reefs." World Resources Institure. Washington D.C. [top] How does the marine aquarium industry affect coral reefs? Little, or no, regulation is in place as to the ways in which coral organisms are harvested and transported to foreign countries. Reef organisms found in hobbyist’s shops likely were obtained using destructive measures. Cyanide fishing, or the process by which collectors will stun a desired fish for collection, is known to directly kill corals and other reef inhabitants. For a list of facts in regards to the marine aquarium industry and coral reefs see the website listed below. -Environmental
Media Services. "Marine Aquarium Industry Facts." -Bryant, D., Burke, L., McManus, J., and M. Spalding. 1998. "Reefs at Risk: A Map Based Indicator of Threats to the World’s Coral Reefs." World Resources Institure. Washington D.C. [top]
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