Environment
Coral Conservation a Collaborative Cause
By
Jan 20, 2008, 00:30

(NewsUSA) - From Maine to Texas, Alaska to the Gulf of Mexico, every coastline has one thing in common that is essential to a healthy environment -; deep-sea corals.

Many of the brightly colored corals making up our ocean's reefs are thousands of years old, and more than 90 percent of corals in the world's oceans live in deep-sea areas.

While most people consider corals a natural beauty of the ocean, they also have practical uses. In fact, many types are being used in testing to help a healthy environment. In fact, many types are being used in testing to help cure ailments such as cancer, AIDS and even heart disease.

Delicate corals and their ecosystems, however, are sustaining damage that could threaten their age-old existence. And while a great deal of this damage is caused by fishing gear, carbon-dioxide pollution also plays a large role in the destruction of corals.

In fact, one-third of human-caused carbon dioxide ends up in the ocean, leaving the water much more acidic and eating away at corals that have escaped the doom of fishing gear. But whether or not you live near the ocean, everyone can take steps in their day-to-day lives to make a difference.

Here are a few tips provided by Oceana:

* Remember it all runs downhill.

It is important to think about your runoff even if you don't live near the ocean. Be wary of using chemically enhanced pesticides and fertilizers around your home. Additionally, use of non-phosphate detergents can help.

* Reduce your energy use.

While this kind of "green" thinking can help the environment in numerous ways, it also protects corals and their environment. Try carpooling, using energy-efficient appliances or simply turning the lights off when you leave a room.

* Save on water.

Take steps to conserve water, which will lead to less runoff and pollution in the ocean.

* Respect their environment.

Discovering the wonder and beauty of corals can be an incredible experience, but remember never to touch the corals with either your hands or your gear. Also, be careful not to anchor to a reef when boating.

* Use your voice.

Let your member of Congress know that you value corals and their ecosystems by writing or e-mailing them, and stay abreast of the latest legislation affecting corals.

For more information on corals and on what you can do to help, visit www.oceana.org

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