How do coral reefs contribute to marine biodiversity and the health of ocean ecosystems, and what are the primary threats to coral reef systems globally?

Coral reefs are one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the ocean, providing habitat and food for a wide variety of marine species. They support numerous fish, invertebrates, and algae, and play a critical role in protecting coastlines from erosion and storm damage. The primary threats to coral reefs include climate change (leading to coral bleaching and ocean acidification), overfishing, pollution, and coastal development. These threats can lead to the degradation of reef systems and loss of biodiversity.