Phytoplankton [local] is an essential link to the ocean and world ecology. Phytoplankton plays a major role in the carbon cycle [local]. Depletion of phytoplankton would greatly exacerbate the greenhouse effect [local]. Phytoplankton uses several pigments [local] to harvest or capture sunlight in photosynthesis.
Coral reefs [local] are rich ecosystems that are under serious environmental stress. Coral reefs are home to 1/4 of all marine species and are sites of commerical fishing. The coral reef is created by organisms[local] that secrete carbonate. About 1/2 of all the calcium flowing into the oceans is estimated to be captured by the reef. Coral reefs are under pressure due to land run-off increasing silt build-up and washing in herbicides, pesticides and fertilizer. Blast fishing and cyanide fishing techniques are very damaging to the coral reef. Pollution in some resort sites of raw sewage has also damaged the coral reef. One serious problem that can greatly harm or kill a coral reef is coral bleaching [local]. Coral bleaching appears with pollution problems. The coral reef contain microscopic organisms call zooxanthellae, a symbiotic organism, that helps the coral survive and lay down its limestone.
