002. South Florida Marine Ecosystem

South Florida (Miami & Florida Keys)

Ecological Importance

Coral Reefs Florida Reef Tract is the third largest barrier reef system, supporting thousands of marine species.

Seagrass Beds Support manatees, turtles, and fish; stabilize sediment and improve water clarity.

Mangrove Forests Extensive coverage buffers storms, supports biodiversity, and filters pollutants.

Estuaries Biscayne Bay and Florida Bay are key estuarine systems supporting diverse life.

Industrial Importance

Coral Reefs Major driver of tourism, diving industry, and coastal protection.

Seagrass Beds Vital for fisheries, eco-tourism, and habitat conservation.

Mangrove Forests Support fisheries, protect coastal infrastructure, and attract eco-tourism.

Estuaries Support tourism, fisheries, and water transport.

Environmental Issues

Coral Reefs Coral bleaching, disease, pollution, and overfishing.

Seagrass Beds Nutrient pollution, boating impacts, and climate change.

Mangrove Forests Loss due to development, pollution, and sea level rise.

Estuaries Pollution, algal blooms, habitat degradation, and freshwater flow disruption.

Vocabulary: Sediment | Biodiversity | Ecotourism | Estuaries| Overfishing