REEF
One of the most impressive, unique natural phoenomena
in the world, the bordering reef of the Gulf of
Aqaba, the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea - remains
a fascination of such great note. Looming, seemingly
barren mountains cascade into the sea which houses
at this juncture a rich, colourful and alive marine
habitat. Its importance depends on its ability to
sustain itself through a tight food web cycle. Much
of its source of nutrient is generated internally
as well as from the upwellings of the Gulfs.
As
is often pointed out, some of the reef, which grows
at a snail's pace eg. of 1cm/year, has been in existence
prior to the footsteps of Moses trodden in the sands
of Sinai.
Many species are endemic to the region others can
be found in various forms in other parts of the world.
The Choris Clown fish has cousins in say Australia,
a very long way away, yet outwardly, differing slightly
in colour and markings only.
There is determined
action by those who live and work here to preserve
the reef in its glory as is befitting such a natural
habitat. It is asked of the visitor to similarly
assist in this regard.
