Florida Keys

Florida Keys

Florida Keys is Home to North America's only Living Coral Reef

Florida Keys is home to North Americas only living coral reef.The reef extends from Key Largo ,to the Dry Torgugas,west of key West,in the Gulf of Mexico.The reefs here are spectacular and rival those of many of the Carribbean areas.There are approximately 6,000 coral and patch reefs  between Key Biscayne and the Dry Tortugas.

Coral reefs are specialized habitats that provide food,shelter and breeding sites for numerious plants and animals.They provide natural protection for the adjacent coast,and are very important to Florida's economy.The attraction to the coral reefs contribute greatly to the total value of Florida's fisheries.

Coral reefs only develope in area's with specific enviornmental characteristics:a solid structure for the base;warm and predictable water temperatures;oceanic salinaties;clear,transparent waters low in phosphate and nitrogen nutrients,and moderate wave action to disperse wastes and bring oxygen and plankton to the reef.

Florida Key's Tropical setting and it's beautiful coral reefs attracts millions of visitors annually.We must all minimize human damage to the reefs.The reefs are well marked on navigation ,if you are not familiar with the area,refer to the charts.

Boaters run aground and destroy coral colonies that are hundreds of years old.Remember that reefs have a unique golden-brown color.There is a saying in the keys:"Brown,Brown go Around".Be cautious when anchoring your boat .Do not deploy the anchor directly in coral.Usually there are sandy areas close by,anchor in the sand.

Anglers should avoid shallow coral reefs when trolling.Hooks can scare and injure the coral,leaveing it vulnerable to infection by microscopic organisms that can kill the animals.

When you are snorkeling or diving do not touch the coral!Do not grasp,stand or sit on coral.All coral is protected.It is against the law to collect,harvest or sell Florida corals in the state and adjacent federal waters.

Florida Keys coral reefs are significant,unique natural resources. Be responsible to insure that for many years to come people can injoy one of "Americas Treasures". 

 

About the Author

Paul Beaudette is an avid fisherman and traveler and you can get more information by visiting his Websites at

http://flakeysfishin.com/blog

 http://your-travel-store.com/blog

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