Located in the Ta’u unit of National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, “Big Momma” is one of the largest Porites coral heads in the world. Photo: XL Catlin Seaview Survey

Coral Reefs

Coral reef ecosystems are some of the most diverse ecosystems: thousands of species rely on them for survival. They are also crucial to human communities, protecting coastal populations from storm damage, supporting commercial fisheries, attracting tourists, and more.

pink coral of rose atoll — National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa. Mark Manuel/NOAA

large coral head in key largo — Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. David J. Ruck/NOAA

fish swimming over a reef — Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. James Watt/NOAA

school of fish swimming over a reef — Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. G.P. Schmahl/NOAA

coral reef in flower garden banks National Marine Sanctuary — Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Greg McFall/NOAA