Unlock the wonders of coral reefs and inspire a deeper connection to ocean ecology. Coral reefs are the vibrant heart of the ocean, home to countless species and vital for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Curing Coral reveals the intricate lives of ocean animals, marine life, and the delicate balance of coral reef habitats. It combines engaging storytelling with accessible science, making complex marine biology understandable and fascinating. This book also explores how human actions impact these underwater world s, from climate change to ocean conservation efforts. Perfect for biology for teens, educators, and ocean enthusiasts, it encourages readers to learn, reflect, and take action to protect sea animals and their ecosystems. You'll find: In-depth coral reef ecology and the science behind coastal ecosystems - Fascinating ocean animal facts and marine biology explained clearly - Educational sea life insights to inspire readers of all ages - Practical ideas about ocean animals gifts and ecology gifts that support conservation - The connection between ocean wildlife health and climate change - A comprehensive guide to understanding sea animals and ocean life This essential guide empowers readers to appreciate the beauty and importance of coral reefs, sea life, and ocean ecosystems. Join the mission to preserve our oceans and protect the delicate balance of marine life before it’s too late! “This is an exceptional read for all audiences, filled with relatability, valuable insights, and captivating storytelling into the impacts climate change is having on our coral reefs and planet.” —Veronica Williamson, marine biologist "A must-read! I couldn't be prouder of the awareness that Summer is bringing to coral reef conservation." —Zachary Craig, Hawai'i coral restoration coordinator "An important look into the good, the bad, and the ugly of being a marine biologist fighting our climate crisis. Summer exemplifies the resilience and perseverance necessary to make it in an ocean world full of joy and devastation. An essential read for any aspiring marine scientist."  —Megan Kennedy, senior research associate in the Coral Reef Restoration Lab at the University of Miami and program manager at Rescue a Reef “Both educational and entertaining,  Curing Coral  is an excellent read for anyone interested in ways to save our oceans.” —Bonnie Monteleone, co-founder of Plastic Ocean Project Inc. "There is so much knowledge and passion for the ocean within these pages and you can hear it through the writing. I felt like I was right alongside Summer on all her adventures, laughing and aweing with every other sentence I read. This book made me have so much more love and admiration for the coral reefs!"  —Chloe Spring, marine biologist Summer Collins is a coral biologist working and living in the Florida Keys. She began working and studying coral after research analyzing percent bleaching rates of reefs in Belize during a study abroad in college. Since then, she has published a paper in  Frontiers  regarding antiseptic treatments on corals in a restoration setting, worked in a scientific nonprofit laboratory focused on coral reef restoration in the Florida Keys, and participated in the summer 2023 coral bleaching rescue efforts. She has mentored over forty-five students in pursuit of their marine science careers. She now runs a science communications Instagram page to continue to inspire, assist, and educate on a variety of marine science topics. She resides in Big Pine Key, Florida. Coral Reefs: The Breakdown So, what is a coral reef? I’m sure you are thinking of the vivid images flashing across your TV screen showing ultra-colored landscapes and fish darting about. You would not be wrong. However, a coral reef is more than just a pretty video, a secret fishing hole, or a good spot for a vacation. Coral reefs are an ancient civilization made up of hundreds of thousands of different animals. It is an entire ecosystem; they often have been compared to our rainforests. These animals create a labyrinth of structures and color, playing a symphony of crackles and pops, providing an oasis on the ocean floor. These foundational animals called coral lay out the base which every animal builds upon. Fish, dolphins, sharks, crabs, and many more creatures rely on coral reefs for the production of food and habitat. Outside of the animal realm, coral reefs have been the inspiration for writers, artists, and scientists throughout time. Coral reefs form in warm shallow waters where sunlight is still peneratable from the surface. Coral reefs, on average, exist anywhere between 60-90 meters, but can reach as far down as 150 meters. The warm coastal waters of places like Australia, Florida, Costa Rica, and the Maldives offer the perfect amount of sunlight and water temperatures of 73-84 degrees Fahrenheit for these ancient cities to form. Coral reefs began forming millions of years ago, with the oldest carbon dating of corals dating ba