1. Coral Reefs Communities in Florida
By: Jessica Kurth

2. Florida’s Coral Reefs
Coral reef communities in Florida are categorized as either Hardbottom Reef, Patch Reef, or Bank Reef

3. Hardbottom Communities
Are generally found near the shore built over limestone rock. There is little diversity in these communities.
Gorgonians, sponges, algae, and some stony corals
Provides shelter and food for many invertebrates and fish

4. Hardbottom Community Pictures

5. Patch Reef Communities
In shallow water
Outer reef is surrounded by a ring of sand that extends out to nearby seabeds
Mostly consists of brain corals and large star corals

6. Bank Reef Communities Located more towards the sea versus patch corals
Usually larger than patch reefs
Common diving and snorkeling locations
High amount of diversity
Has low ridges of coral separated by channels consisting of sand

7. Bank Reef Pictures

8. Website Citation
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