How you can protect coral reefs and their inhabitants

"Take only pictures, leave only bubbles" is the slogan of PADI AWARE in an attempt to save the world's coral reefs and other marine habitats visited by us. But what does it actually mean for you?

Firstly, don't walk on the reefs - whilst it's tempting to put your feet down, you can undo years and years of coral growth in seconds. Many of the big corals you see have taken over 100 years to get to that size and are very delicate. Standing on the reef physically kills, and kicking up sand around them chokes the coral polyps. And don't forget, some coral can fight back - touch fire coral at your peril!

Secondly, don't harass marine wildlife. Pufferfish only puff up when scared, octopus and squid only squirt in when scared, starting to get the picture..? It's a natural survival mechanism, not for your amusement.

Thirdly, if you are on a snorkelling trip and the boat crew insist on passing some poor urchin around - don't touch it if you have just lathered up in suncream or insect repellent. Despite what they will tell you, urchins are susceptible to being handled.

Fourthly, don't drop your rubbish in the water, particularly plastic bags. Turtles mistake these for jellyfish and eat them. The bags get wrapped around the turtle's intestines so the poor creature can't eat any more, and will slowly starve to death. Carrier bags also strangle corals when they get caught.

Fifthly, don't take shells. Although they may look pretty in your bathroom, they should be left to provide shelter for small creatures, and homes for crabs. Many species of crab find a bigger shell to move to as they grow, so all the shells on the sea bed are recycled.

Finally, if you do see someone doing something stupid, why not politely have a quiet word and tell them WHY what they are doing is wrong. Many people are ignorant and education is a most powerful way to change their behaviour. Sadly this doesn't work in all cases as some people just don't care.

About the author

Emma is the founder of www.ChangingEarth.org - an initiative to help educate people in how to change Earth for the better, and slow the damaging effects we have on our planet. Get free advertising by submitting your articles to the Changing Earth directory whilst helping to 'do your bit'!

Article Source: http://www.changingearth.org

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