Reef

rocks emerging from intertidal zone at the edge of Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island. ©Tim Hauf, timhaufphotography.com.
A reef is an ocean structure formed by rocks or marine organisms like corals. It is filled with debris, sediment, and the skeletal remains of plants and animals that help the reef resist the force of waves and currents.

Last updated: November 9, 2018