In a 13 year study in the Cayman Islands, live coral reduced 40% between 1999 and 2004 due to bleaching and infectious disease from the warm ocean temperatures. Then in 2011 the coral life had returned to its luscious state as it appeared in 1999. A lot of the reefs around Cayman Islands are under protection which helped give it time to rejuvenate. Like most things in nature, being untouched by human activities helps in keeping the coral reefs healthy and grow. Coral reefs may only occupy 0.01% of marine environment but they harbor up to 25% of different marine organisms and feed and house 25% of fish caught in developing nations. Not to mention 30% of export earnings in countries that can promote coral reef-related tourism. It is a small gesture but important to keep these reefs protective and thriving, as they are a major link in providing for the aquatic wildlife.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/12/131217155223.htm
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