Red Sea Ecosystem

The Red Sea is one of the most species-rich marine areas in the world — and at the same time one of the most threatened. Over 220 coral species and 1,200 fish species (10% of which are endemic, occurring only here) live in the reefs. The high biodiversity is due to the warm, nutrient-poor water, the isolation (only a narrow connection to the Indian Ocean), and the geologically young coral reefs.

Threats: Climate change (coral bleaching), overfishing, coastal development (hotels directly on the reef), snorkeling damage (tourists stepping on corals), and plastic waste. Some reefs have been significantly damaged in the last 20 years. Responsible diving and snorkeling (do not touch corals, do not litter in the sea, reef-friendly sunscreen) is mandatory.