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Coral Reefs
Coral reef is a type of underwater environment shaped by limestone formations. Reef limestone consists largely of a framework of skeletons from marine animals called corals. Reefs also contain the remains of other limestone-producing organisms, such as algae and shellfish, as well as sand and other particles. A coral reef is a complex, biologically rich ecosystem. Many of the world's most colorful animals live in coral reefs. Reefs also provide important benefits to people and to the larger environment.
Coral animals produce formations that may resemble branching trees, large domes, small irregular crusts, or tiny organ pipes. They can glow with rich colors, including beautiful shades of green, orange, purple, tan, and yellow. Coral limestone resists damage from waves, and it can grow hundreds of yards or meters thick. Overall, coral reefs range widely in area. Small patch reefs measure only a few square yards or meters, while some interconnected reef systems span......

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Approximate Word Count: 771
Approximate Pages: 4 (250 words per double-spaced page)

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