Coral reefs look like underwater rainbows. They have bright reds, yellows, and blues. Why are they so colorful?
The Algae Partners Coral is an animal. It is small and soft. Inside the coral, tiny plants live. These plants are called algae. Algae need sunlight to make food. They use photosynthesis to turn light into energy. This process gives coral its beautiful colors. The coral provides a home for the algae. In return, the algae share food with the coral. This is a perfect team.
Sunscreen for Coral Sometimes, coral makes its own colors. These colors act like sunscreen. The sun’s light can be too strong for the tiny algae. If the light is too bright, the algae get hurt. Coral makes special pigments to protect them. These pigments create bright colors like neon green or pink. It keeps the algae safe and cool.
When Colors Fade The ocean is getting warmer. When water gets too hot, the algae leave the coral. Without the algae, the coral loses its color. It turns white. This is called "coral bleaching." The coral is not dead yet, but it is very sick. It needs the algae to survive. If the water stays hot for a long time, the coral cannot eat. It eventually dies.
Protecting the Reefs We need healthy oceans to keep reefs colorful. We can help by using less plastic and keeping the water clean. When the ocean is cool and clean, the algae stay. The coral stays bright and happy.
Coral reefs are home to many fish. They are important for the whole planet. By protecting them, we save thousands of sea creatures.
What is your favorite color found in nature?