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Reefs are formed as coral
polyps build colonies.
Coral feeds on tiny organisms, most of which need
sunlight to survive. Thus, it's "food" is generally
found near the surface. In the absence of strong currents to carry
the food to deep water, coral builds where it is most abundant -
in shallow water. Since coral can be harmed by water that is
"too warm", the colonies thrive in a relatively narrow
zone - at a depth range of about 15 to 40 feet.
In
the Upper Keys, the area which provides this depth is about five
miles offshore. Therefore, the reefs are not accessible for
"shore dives".
A boat is required to visit the reefs. |
