Patch Reefs can be found in shallow waters at around 3-6 metres in depth which is mainly found near the major type of coral reefs. At low tide there is a possibility of viewing the top of the patch reef. Patch Reefs are a circular or oval shape. On the outer edge of each patch reef is a ring of sand that extends to other seagrass beds. Feeding Fish cause the size of width of the ring of sand to change. If fish feel safe close to the reef, then the ring of sand will be narrow. However, if the fish feel safe further away from the reef, then the ring will be wide. They develop in calm protected water behind barrier reefs. Each patch reef is different in size, development and the species that live there.
A patch reef starts with a coral lava finding a shell in the seagrass or sand. The lava attaches to the shell and forms a medium sized coral. Patch Reefs are mostly made up of star and brain corals. From the air patch reefs look golden brown with a white halo around them. Plant eating animals also hide in the reef during the day and come out at night to feed.
Patch Reefs
Patch Reefs can be found in shallow waters at around 3-6 metres in depth which is mainly found near the major type of coral reefs. At low tide there is a possibility of viewing the top of the patch reef. Patch Reefs are a circular or oval shape. On the outer edge of each patch reef is a ring of sand that extends to other seagrass beds. Feeding Fish cause the size of width of the ring of sand to change. If fish feel safe close to the reef, then the ring of sand will be narrow. However, if the fish feel safe further away from the reef, then the ring will be wide. They develop in calm protected water behind barrier reefs. Each patch reef is different in size, development and the species that live there.
A patch reef starts with a coral lava finding a shell in the seagrass or sand. The lava attaches to the shell and forms a medium sized coral. Patch Reefs are mostly made up of star and brain corals. From the air patch reefs look golden brown with a white halo around them. Plant eating animals also hide in the reef during the day and come out at night to feed.
By Chloe Quintal