Have you ever heard of the coral triangle? Yup, Indonesia’s oceans are frequently described as being part of the coral triangle, indicating that it has a high level of marine biodiversity. But, do you know what the coral triangle area covers and what’s in it? Here are some fascinating facts about the coral triangle that you should know!
1. Known as the Amazon of the ocean
The Amazon forest is well-known for its high levels of terrestrial biodiversity. Meanwhile, the coral reef triangle is well-known for its abundance of marine biodiversity. The coral triangle spans six countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Timor Leste, and the Solomon Islands, with a total area of 6 million km2. Even better, around 76 percent of the world’s coral reefs are found in the coral triangle. This region is home to 605 of the world’s 798 different coral reef types. In addition, the coral triangle is home to a diverse range of marine species, including turtles, dolphins, dugongs, and whales.
2. Six countries have pledged to preserve it
Since 2009, the six countries traversed by the coral triangle area have declared the formation of the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI-CFF). The six countries are Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Timor Leste and the Solomon Islands. The goal of this effort is to address challenges to the Coral Triangle’s marine, coastal, and small island ecosystems. Seascape management, fisheries management, establishing and managing marine protected areas, climate change adaptation measures, and improving the condition of threatened species are all part of this collaboration.
3. It has great economic worth
Because it is rich in biodiversity, the Coral Triangle area has extraordinary economic value and contributes to the advancement of the tourism, fisheries, and coastal economic development sectors. Based on The Coral Reef Economy report made by the International Sustainability Unit, United Nations Environment Program, and the International Coral Reef Initiative, the economic value of the Coral Triangle area reaches 13.9 billion US dollars annually. Many coastal communities also seek livelihoods from marine resources in this area.
4. The 9th of June is Coral Triangle Day
Since 2012, the 9th of June has been designated as Coral Triangle Day. This celebration is conducted to enhance public awareness and encourage people to get involved in efforts to maintain the coral reef triangle’s biodiversity. Because the existence of coral reefs and other marine species could be endangered if it is not properly managed. Contamination of sea water, the prevalence of rubbish in the sea, and climate change are all potential dangers.
For those who want to see the underwater beauty of the coral triangle area directly, you can snorkel or dive in a number of spots. For example, you can go diving in the Raja Ampat area, which is the epicenter of the world’s coral reef triangle area. By seeing it up close, you will be more appreciative of its beauty and motivated to preserve its sustainability.
Then, if you want to know more info and other interesting facts about marine issues in Indonesia, go watch the Sail to Campus talkshow videos on EcoNusa’s YouTube!
