Coral reefs appeared in Ryukyu arc 400,000 years ago and formed Ryukyu limestone. Then the glacial age came and sea surface went lower. Forming coral reefs were disrupted but 100,000 years ago, it started forming again during interglacial period.Southern part of Okinawa, Miyako islands, and Yaeyama islands are made up of Ryukyu limestone.
more Corals are animal but just like plants, they purify seawater by absorbing carbon dioxide and produce oxygen and function as natural breakwater. Corals have important roles and influence not only undersea but also for other species on the planet.
There are approximately 800 kinds of coral existing in the world and about 200 kinds are identified in Okinawa. Okinawa is a coral rich region in the world. We are hoping to keep Okinawa’s beautiful corals forever.
Today, environment conservation is concerned all over the world and it is a time for us to look after corals and other marine species to protect environment too. ×close