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Abiotic Characteristics of a Coral Reef

Coral reefs are sometimes called the "rainforests of the sea" because they have some of the most varied ecosystems on the planet. Coral reefs are underwater structures made from calcium carbonate and contain tiny living animals. The living parts of a coral reef are referred to as biotic. Coral reefs are also made from abiotic factors such as sunlight, temperature, soil, water and wave action. Coral reefs vary in size, shape and composition depending on the combination of variable biotic and abiotic factors.

Sunlight
- The sunlight available to a coral reef effects its growth and diversity. Light is critical for the relationship between the living aspects of a coral reef. The intensity of the light influences the development and sustenance of the coral. The quantity of coral decreases as the depth of the coral reef increases due to the disappearance of light. Light is extremely significant for coral reefs because of the algae that is produced by light through photosynthesis. The coral reef system would not exist without light.
Temperature
- Coral reefs, like all living ecosystems, flourish in mild water temperatures of 77 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Although this range of temperature is optimal to maintain life, there are some corals reefs that have adapted and are able to survive outside the optimal temperature range.
Soil
- Soil is made from abiotic forces like ice, rain, wind and temperature and the interaction of living organisms such as microorganisms, plants and earthworms. In aquatic environments, the distinctiveness of the sand and rock shapes the types of organisms found there. For coral reefs to flourish, they must be established in clear water. The amount of sediment must be minuscule, and enough light must be available to break through the surface of the water. The lack of debris in the water means the water has a low amount of nutrients. Since reefs are comprised of corals, thousands of animals live and survive by eating the coral.
Water
- All living organism need water to survive. The majority of coral reefs are found in salty water. Coral reefs are able to survive in water that ranges in salinity from 27 to 40 parts per thousand (ppt). The optimal proportion of water to salt though is 36 ppt.
Wave Action
- Coral reefs are located in oceans that are affected by tides and waves. Wave action drains waste, sediment and debris away from the reef and into deeper water. Wave action also brings food into reef. Enormous reefs are found in areas with breaking waves, intense sunlight and abundant oxygen.

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