PACIFIC CORAL REEFS from the UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

USGS - COASTAL CORAL REEFS 

Excerpts;

Coral reefs are unique ecosystems of plants, animals, and their associated geological framework.  Although they cover less that 0.5 of Earth's surface, coral reefs are home to an estimated 25% of all marine species.  Of the total coral reef habitat in the United States waters, about 75% or more than 16,000 square kilometers (6,000 square miles) is located in the Pacific Ocean.

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This site has hard science and wonderful photos of coral reef ecosystems...  See what healthy coral looks like!