Colorful Coral

Corals are tiny, colorful animals. Corals grow and divide.
This makes a coral reef. Coral reefs can be found in warm shallow ocean water or deep in the ocean. Many fish use coral reefs for shelter. Some fish eat the coral! Sea turtles, crabs, and snakes live on reefs, too!  

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As our planet gets warmer, the oceans are getting warmer, too.
It can be too warm for coral. When they get too warm, coral lose their colors. This is called bleaching. Chemicals can hurt coral reefs, too.  

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About half of Earth’s coral reefs have died. Scientists are working to save the coral reefs. You can help! Use less water. Don’t litter. Wear safe sunscreen if you swim in the ocean. 

What Do You Think? Why is it important to protect places where plants and animals live? 

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