description Florida Keys Reef Tract Overview
The Florida Reef Tract is an extensive coral reef ecosystem running along the southeastern Florida coast and through the Florida Keys. It forms part of the broader Florida Keys marine environment and includes bank reefs, patch reefs, hardbottom habitats, and associated seagrass communities. Much of the tract lies within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, established in 1990, and supports fisheries, tourism, coastal protection, and diverse marine life while facing disease, warming, pollution, and storm damage.
help Florida Keys Reef Tract FAQ
Where is the Florida Reef Tract located?
The Florida Reef Tract is an extensive coral reef ecosystem that runs parallel to the southeastern coast of Florida. It extends south through the Florida Keys, reaching past the Dry Tortugas.
What types of reefs are found in the Florida Reef Tract?
This marine environment consists of several distinct reef types, including bank reefs, patch reefs, and hardbottom habitats. These areas are heavily intertwined with seagrass beds that support a wide variety of marine life.
Is the Florida Reef Tract part of a protected marine area?
Yes, a significant portion of the reef tract falls within the boundaries of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This designation helps protect the fragile coral ecosystems from anchor damage and overfishing.
What environmental threats are currently affecting the Florida Reef Tract?
The reef tract has suffered significantly from coral bleaching events driven by rising ocean temperatures. It has also been severely impacted by disease outbreaks, such as the Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease first identified in the region in 2014.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
