What Is Coral Reef Zonation?
Zonation is a very important concept when considering any ecosystem, with coral reefs being no exception. A particular ecosystem will typically be divided into zones, each one having a particular set of physical parameters, such as light intensity, that set it aside from any other part of the ecosystem. A zone is defined by its physical parameters and location within the ecosystem. Within a particular zone, various organisms will have evolved such that they are adapted to thrive under those specific conditions that are present within that zone. It can undoubtedly live somewhere else, in a similar zone or sometimes even one vastly different, but there is always one in which it will be perfectly suited and as a result out-compete any other organisms that occupies that niche in the food web.
