Brief Review of Corals

Corals are made up of colonies of small animals that have flower-like structures called polyps. They build hard skeletons of carbonates that become massive through time. They vary in the form of their colonies and may appear massive, branching, mushroom or ear-like, or table-like.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, corals serve as a major source of food for fishes grazing on algae growing on coral reefs or those that feed directly on corals such as the parrotfishes (Scarus spp.) and even the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci). That is why they are considered highly important because they lie at the foundation of the marine food chain. Thus, nowadays, its conservation is one of the priorities of many environmentalists.

Conventional Uses to Man

There are many threats to corals as man had found various uses for corals. Historically in the Philippines for example, the massive formation of calcium carbonate are mined by the Spaniards to build forts and breakwaters. In modern times, coral materials are likewise used to decorate buildings and some make their way as colorful beads or trinkets.

Coral beads with shells (Source)

Corals Used Directly as Food

Nobody, if only few, knew that corals can also serve as a direct source of food for man. While discussing about coral reefs, one of my students mentioned that she has come across a group of natives in Quezon, Palawan who, during times when fish is difficult to catch as in the stormy months, would come and gather pieces of coral along the coast. They cook these corals to serve as their food. The polyps probably provide the protein content. This is an indigenous practice that should be recognized in the formulation of national policies on reef management.

It would be exciting to see which coral species they collect and find out details on how these are cooked. This will require a short trip.