Passage: Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. They are formed by colonies of tiny animals called coral polyps, which build hard skeletons around themselves. These skeletons create the structure of the reef. Coral reefs provide shelter and food for a vast array of marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and crustaceans. They are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea” due to their incredible biodiversity.