Hidden beneath the ocean waters and often(call) the" rainforests of the sea", coral reefs (珊瑚礁) are some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, with perhaps one-quarter of all ocean species relying on reefs for (survive). Being home to countless sea (creature), coral reefs are important ecosystems for coastal people, too. It is estimated coral reefs contribute billions of dollars to world economies annually, (provide) food, protection of shorelines, and jobs.
Unfortunately, coral species are being (severe) threatened, many of which(destroy) by pollution, overfishing practices, and other impacts over the past centuries. Climate change, which results in rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification (酸化) , (be) the most pressing threat to coral reefs now. High water temperatures cause corals to lose the algae (海藻) that provide them with food, makes the corals appear white or bleaching (白 化) and can increase outbreaks of infectious disease.
A team of researchers are trying to develop super corals at their research center at the moment. They began by selecting certain coral species that seem to have adapted. to the changing ocean conditions better others. Hopefully, the super corals will not only survive but thrive in the warmer and increasingly acidic oceans.
