Saving the coral reefs
By Marjorie Henry, Contributor

Manning Cup action between Spanish Town High and St. Catherine High. The game ended 3-2 in favour of St. Catherine High School . - Carlington Wilmot Photo

HOW CAn the coral reefs be saved? This was one of the questions I posed in a previous lesson. The information from the available literature seems to suggest that coral reefs can be saved through:

* Legislation which would prohibit certain human activities in areas where coral reefs are found.

* Education on the importance of the corals.

* Ensuring a healthy marine environment.

My reference is the New Caribbean Environment by Vohn A. M. Rahil.

The following is stated:

(i) People must be aware of the importance of coral reefs as natural fish farms, wave breakers, shoreline protection and leisure areas. In this way, reefs can be better protected from damage.

(ii) Reefs should be designated as marine parks so that they will not be subjected to destruction.

(iii) Strict measures should be enforced against the use of damaging fishing techniques, dredging, industrial and sewage pollution and coral mining for lime production or construction. In this way the natural coral habitat will be preserved.

(iv) There must be regulations for the use of reefs as an ecotourism venture.

(v) Never anchor on corals.

(vi) Do not collect souvenirs of live corals as this destroys the coral habitat.

Here are some questions on coral reefs taken from past examination papers.

JUNE 1995 ­ QUESTION 3

(b) (i) Explain why few corals are found close to the mouths of large rivers. (6 marks)

(ii) For a named Caribbean country, explain THREE ways in which the activities of man are destroying the coral reefs. (8 marks)

JUNE 2000 ­ QUESTION 3

(b) (i) State TWO conditions under which coral reefs thrive. (2 marks)

JUNE 2002 ­ QUESTION 3

(c) Describe the appearance of a fringing reef.

JUNE 2003 ­ QUESTION 3

(b) (ii) List THREE conditions necessary for coral reefs to grow. (3 marks).

Find the answers for these questions. You can use them to revise the topic. I will attempt to answer them in the next lesson. In the meantime, may I encourage you to continue reading on the topic in your textbook.