The Coral Triangle encompasses only 1% of the world’s oceans yet it has a blooming biodiversity within it that are vitally important to both human and the environment.

Within the boundaries of this small area, it contains 75% of all known coral species with over 600 species of reef building corals. The reefs and its surrounding waters also support over 3000 different species of fish, nurtures 6 out of 7 of the world’s marine turtle species and supports many other marine life. It provides nesting grounds for ¾ of known Molluscs, 22 species of Dolphins, at least 9 species of Whale, the endangered dugong, many Manta Rays and Whalesharks and even the Coelacanth, an ancient fish that pre-dates even before the Dinosaurs. Furthermore, it has 75% of the world’s mangrove species along with 45% of sea-grasses.

To explore the many species, visit http://www.worldwildlife.org/places/coral-triangle for graphics and more information.