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A reef is a rock, sandbar, or other feature lying beneath the surface of the water (80 meters or less beneath low water).

Many reefs result from abiotic processes-deposition of sand, wave erosion planing down rock outcrops, and other natural processes-but the best-known reefs are the coral reefs of tropical waters developed through biotic processes dominated by corals and calcareous algae. Artificial reefs such as shipwrecks are sometimes created to enhance physical complexity on generally featureless sand bottoms in order to attract a diverse assemblage of organisms, especially fish.

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What are reef sharks?

Reef sharks are a group of shark species commonly found around coral reefs and coastal areas. They are typically small to medium-sized sharks that prey on fish, crustaceans, and other small marine animals. Reef sharks play an important role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem.


Fringing reef that has grown oceanward?

A fringing reef that has grown oceanward indicates that the reef is expanding its presence further into the ocean. This growth is influenced by various factors such as sea level rise, sediment availability, and coral growth patterns. Ultimately, this expansion may enhance the biodiversity and ecological functionality of the reef ecosystem.


What is the Definition of Reef Crest?

A reef crest is the shallowest part of a coral reef, typically located at the very top where waves break. It can be characterized by high energy due to wave action and is an important zone for biodiversity on the reef.


What does a caribbean reef shark eat?

Caribbean reef sharks primarily feed on a variety of fish, including reef fish, groupers, and snappers. They also consume crustaceans, octopuses, and occasionally small sharks and rays. Their diet is diverse and largely dependent on what is available in their habitat.


What kind of sharks live in coral reefs?

Coral reefs house over 16 different breeds of reef sharks. In the Galapagos Islands, the hammerhead shark can be found among the reef life there. In the Maldives, over 16 different breeds of reef sharks, among them, hammerheads and whale sharks, can be found in this reef. Off th shores of San Diego, there are a variety of sharks there, among them, great whites, blue, and mako sharks. ~ Hexedgirl92