Why are coral reefs so important?

Shelter
Coral reefs act as natural barriers to the sea, protecting beaches from pounding waves. Without them, many beaches and buildings would be in danger from waves and storms.

Medicine
Because there are so many different species living on coral reefs, they are important for scientists who create medicines for humans. For example, Australian scientists have developed a sunscreen from substances that corals use to protect themselves from sunlight. It is very effective and can help prevent skin cancer caused by the sun. American scientists used the poison from sea snails that live on reefs to develop an extremely effective pain killer. The snails use the poison to numb their prey, but scientists have been able to use it to reduce the pain suffered by people who are very ill.

Fun
Coral reefs are full of life and extremely beautiful places, making them very popular with tourists and divers. People go on holiday to places where there are coral reefs just to go diving, and the money they pay to do so is often very important to the people who live there.