Do you know that the barrier reef off the coast of the Florida Keys, is the ONLY barrier reef in North America AND is the third largest one within the World? These reefs carry out many vital and environmentally essential capabilities. Because the identify implies, it acts as a barrier to the islands behind it, serving to to cut back wave and storm motion, coming in from the open ocean. It is usually a wildlife habitat that is among the most numerous, in all of the world. The reef is residence to these animals that by no means go away the waters right here, each fish, plants and the precise corals themselves. It additionally acts as a haven to these fish that migrate by means of these waters in addition to a rookery for juvenile fish. Making this biodiverse ecosystem one which should be protected, not just for the enjoyment of all of us, however for our continued ecological life on the this large, blue marble.
Picture Credit score: Reef Aid
That is the place Reef Aid is available in. This group was based in 1987 by Craig and Deevon Quirolo. Their mission was and continues to be one among schooling to boaters and divers alike. One of many first initiatives was the set up of mooring buoys alongside the reefs. This was to cease the harm that was being attributable to boats anchoring and damaging the underwater reefs and habitats. They’ve additionally been instrumental in establishing one of many first coral nurseries. Think about taking a small little bit of dwelling coral, then separating that bit into smaller bits and permitting these to develop after which transplanting these coral offspring onto the reef. Now take into account that corals could solely develop an inch or so over the span of many, a few years. . . What an enterprise of devoted coral mother and father!
Video Credit score: Reef Aid
Reef Aid has additionally established nationwide and world-wide scholar instructional applications and native Coral Camp for youths to take part in. They’ve taken over the administration of the Key West Marine Park, in conjunction and cooperation with the Metropolis of Key West. They have been additionally instrumental in passing an area ordinance, for the usage of Ocean and Reef pleasant sunscreens. Sure, even in very small quantities, varied chemical compounds in most business sunscreens have been proven to have excessive, detrimental results on corals and coral reefs.
The air we breathe, the our bodies of water that current serenity, reflection and leisure enjoyment… all issues that we naturally take as a right require good stewardship. The extra we’re educated the extra delicate we’re to our duties for the world entrusted to our care.
If you need to be taught extra about Reef Aid and their work, please go to their web site.
While you’re able to make the leap and dive the Keys or perhaps take a SCUBA or snorkeling class, let the Key West Categorical be your categorical journey to this glorious undersea surprise of the world!
All images and video credit score to Reef Aid and their YouTube Channel.