Marker 32 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marker 32 |
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 Location in Florida
Location in Caribbean
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| Location | |
| Location | Caribbean |
| Coordinates | 24°28′30″N 081°44′40″W / 24.47500°N 81.74444°W |
| Country | United States |
| Geology | |
| Type | reef |
Marker 32 is a beautiful coral reef located in the sunny Caribbean Sea. It's part of the amazing Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which is a special protected area for ocean life. This reef is found south of Key West in Florida, between two other reefs called Western Sambo and 9-Foot Stake.
Contents
Marker 32: A Special Coral Reef
Marker 32 is a vibrant underwater world. Unlike some other reefs in the Sanctuary, it is not within a special "Sanctuary Preservation Area" (SPA). SPAs have even stricter rules to protect the most sensitive parts of the reef. Marker 32 is also located near a navigational marker number 32, which helps boats know where they are.
What is a Coral Reef?
A coral reef is like an underwater city built by tiny animals called coral polyps. These polyps create hard, stony skeletons that grow together over many years. They form large structures that become homes for thousands of different ocean creatures. Coral reefs are super important because they provide food and shelter for fish, crabs, sea turtles, and many other animals. They also protect coastlines from big waves.
Life at Marker 32
Marker 32 is home to many interesting sea animals. You can find different types of coral, including beautiful pillar coral. This type of coral grows upwards, looking like tall pillars or fingers. Many fish also live here. Large barracuda often swim around, looking for their next meal. You might also spot an endangered Nassau grouper. These fish are very special and need our protection.
Protecting Our Oceans
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary helps protect places like Marker 32. A marine sanctuary is like a national park, but underwater! It helps keep the ocean healthy and safe for all the plants and animals that live there. Protecting these areas is important so that future generations can also enjoy the beauty of coral reefs and the amazing creatures that call them home.
Gallery
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A large colony of pillar coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) at Marker 32 reef, June 2010
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A small colony of pillar coral at Marker 32 reef, June 2010
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Large barracuda at Marker 32 reef, June 2010
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Endangered Nassau grouper (Epinephelus striatus) at Marker 32 reef, June 2010
