FringingReefs

Fringing Reefs

Fringing reefs or shore reefs grow parallel to the shoreline in warm, shallow water. They need abundant sunlight and a suitable hard bottom. It is also important that the water has low nutrient levels and low turbidity. Runoff or excessive sediments (like after a storm) may inhibit growth.

Formation

According to Darwin's Theory, fringing reefs are formed around a volcanic island. The coastline is generally shallow and gently sloping, perfect for rapid calcium carbonate growth. As time progresses and the island submerges, a lagoon is formed between the land mass and the coral platform. This is then known as a barrierreef.

What will I see?

Boulder star and brain corals are the major species of corals found in fringing reefs.

Where are they found?

Fringing reefs often form around the perimeters of islands in both the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific.