Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation
Providing science-based solutions to protect and restore ocean health
Sea cucumbers are often referred to as “earthworms of the sea.” These strange-looking creatures are extremely beneficial to coral reefs. They use their tentacles to shovel sand, tiny organisms, and detritus into their mouths. Similar to earthworms, they provide “fertilizer” or food for other animals. They do so by excreting waste products such as calcium carbonate and ammonia, which provides nutrients for other animals like corals.
Photo Credit: Ken Marks
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you dive into the fascinating world of coral reefs through our virtual reality experience! With an immersive and engaging learning experience, our virtual reality app is designed to take you on a field trip and help you master the concepts of our Coral Reef Ecology Curriculum like never before. Discover a world of exciting resources that will take you on a journey through the vibrant and diverse coral reef ecosystems. Are you ready to explore the depths of your knowledge? Let’s dive in!
Virtual Reef Expedition
Welcome aboard! Embark on a thrilling virtual reality expedition to explore the coral reefs of French Polynesia with the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation (KSLOF) and the University of Miami. As a coral reef ecologist in training, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the mesmerizing beauty of the South Pacific Ocean’s three main coral reef types: fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and atolls. In this immersive experience, you’ll learn about the fascinating zonation patterns that define each reef type, from the depths where light intensity and temperature change, to the areas where waves and water chemistry shape the location of specific organisms. You’ll be one step closer to becoming a coral reef expert by mastering the art of identifying reef zones and types. Join us for an unforgettable journey that combines education and adventure as we explore one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.
Our Virtual Reef Expedition app is a valuable addition to our Coral Reef Types and Reef Zonation units and can be used as a standalone resource or in combination with our other coral reef curricula. Teachers can access lesson plans by logging in.