01/21/2022
Repost: Although the reefs in Martin County exist throughout the entire southern portion of the County, the St. Lucie Reef is the most well documented.
It is 4.5 miles long and home to 21 stony coral species, more than 100 other invertebrates, 23 algae species, more than 450 fish species, and several species of sea turtles including loggerhead, hawksbill, and green turtles. Along with the diverse species live among the reefs, they are also a natural barrier that helps mitigate risks during hurricanes and they provide economic goods and services worth billions of dollars!
So, to make a long story short, coral reefs are pretty important to the ocean.. and the ocean is crucial in supporting humanity and other organisms on Earth.
