Fringing reefs are found through out the Red and Caribbean seas and Pacific Ocean.
Fringing coral reefs occur close to the shore and in shallow bodies of water, making them easily accessible to anyone interested in observing the underwater wonders of a reef ecosystem. According to Darwin's theory on reef evolution, a fringing reef represents the beginning stages of a barrier reef. Fringing reefs are full of biodiversity and provide excellent dive sites. Because they grow so close to shore, fringing reefs are especially susceptible to pollution, sedimentation and over-tourism. Visiting famous fringing reefs with well-managed tourism programs helps fund reef conservation efforts.
Bahamas
Extensive fringing reefs occur along the coasts of remote Bahamian islands including Andros Island, Cat Island, Crooked Island, the Abacos, the Exumas, Eluthera, Rum Cay and San Salvador. Reef biodiversity includes hard and soft corals, large and small fish species, sponges, crustaceans, sea turtles and dolphins. Coral reefs closer to Nassau and other more developed parts of the Bahamas are not as abundant. In 2010, Disneynature drew attention to coral reefs in the Bahamas by helping to establish a 35,000-acre marine protected area in the Bahamas in partnership with the Nature Conservancy.
Gulf of Aqaba
A well-developed fringe reef system is located off the coast of Israel and Jordan in the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea. The reef system boasts thousands of marine species, including hard and soft corals, oysters, sea urchins, sea anemones, octopi, dolphins and sea turtles. The site is one of the northernmost coral reefs in the world. Both Jordan and Israel have designated parts of the reef as marine reserves. Jordan's Aqaba Marine Peace Park and Israel's Hof Almog Nature Reserve focus on sustainable development measures such as close monitoring of reef environments.
Hawaiian Islands
Hawaii is known for its coral reefs, which help to create the waves and culture for which the islands are famous. The Hawaiian Islands are one of the most isolated island chains in the world and range in age from less than one million years up to 28 million years. The newer island formations, including the main Hawaiian Islands, have mostly fringing reefs growing close to the shore. Hawaii's most abundant fringing reefs form in the calm waters of Kona, Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Hanauma Bay and attract divers from around the world. Biodiversity includes reef fishes, sea turtles, eels, hard and soft corals, sea urchins, worms, crustaceans and mollusks. Hawaii relies on a community-based management plan for sustainable development of its reefs. Remote reefs away from heavy tourist areas are in good condition, while reefs in the most developed areas show signs of stress.
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