For my research paper on Coral Reefs, can someone please help me write an intro paragraph? I think I should first start by writing a thesis statement, although I'm not sure if thesis statements are required in research papers. If so, please help me.
This is the info I've collected so far:
Coral reefs are limestone ridges built by tiny coral animals called coral polyps. Coral polyps secrete skeletons of limestone which slowly accumulate and form coral reefs.
Corals live only in clear and warm salt water where there is enough light for photosynthesis, so coral reefs are found in shallow, tropical seas.
"There are three major types of coral reefs: fringing reefs, barrier reefs and atolls. Fringing reefs hug the coastline and barrier reefs grow farther away from the coast, with a lagoon in between.
There are several types of corals including soft corals, sea fans and hard corals. Soft corals feel like soft shoe leather and their skeleton has been reduced to tiny rods that are found throughout their tissue. Sea fans have a wiry, flexible internal skeleton and lots of tiny polyps on the branches of the flat fan-shaped structure. "
Thousands of species of plants and animals live in the cracks and crevices of coral reefs, which makes coral reefs among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Because of their convoluted shape, reefs provide habitats for a magnificent variety of tropical fish, and for snails, clams, and sponges.
Coral reefs are useful to humans and the environment in many different ways. They protect shores from the impact of waves and from storms. They provide a lot of benefits to humans in the form of food and medicine. Also, they provide economic benefits to local communities from tourism.
(from book)An estimated 27 percent of the coral reefs in the world are in danger of destruction from human activities. If the water surrounding a reef is too hot or too cold or if fresh water drains into the water surrounding a reef, the corals may die. If the water is too muddy, polluted, or too high in nutrients, the algae that live within the corals will either die or grow out of control. If the algae grows out of control, it may kill the corals.
Oil spills, sewage, pesticides, and silt runoff have been linked to coral-reef destruction. Furthermore, over fishing can devastate fish populations and upset the balance of a reef’s ecosystem. Because coral reefs grow slowly, a reef may not be able to repair itself after chunks of coral are destroyed by careless divers, fisheries, shipwrecks, ships dropping anchor, or people breaking off pieces of it for decorative items or building materials.
(from website) A major environmental threat to coral reefs is increased temperature of ocean water. The increased temperature puts stress on the highly sensitive corals, causing them to expel the algae that live inside the coral polyps.
I think this, along with a little more information, will be enough to write my 3-4 pages double spaced paper.
Introduction paragraph:
Coral reefs, the magnificent limestone ridges built by coral polyps, are not only breathtaking natural wonders but also crucial ecosystems that support a diverse array of plants and animals. These intricate structures are formed over vast periods of time as coral polyps secrete limestone skeletons, creating the foundation for the reefs. Coral reefs thrive in clear and warm salt water, making them predominantly found in shallow, tropical seas. There are three main types of coral reefs: fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and atolls, each distinguished by their proximity to the coastline and the presence of a lagoon. The diversity of plants and animals that inhabit the cracks and crevices of coral reefs is astounding, making these ecosystems among the richest and most varied on Earth. Not only do coral reefs provide habitats for countless species, but they also offer vital benefits to humans and the environment. Coral reefs act as natural barriers, protecting coastal areas from the destructive impact of waves and storms. They are a significant source of food and medicine, and they contribute to local economies through tourism. However, this delicate balance is under threat due to various human activities. Climate change, pollution, overfishing, and destructive practices pose significant risks to the survival of coral reefs worldwide. As a result, an alarming 27 percent of these magnificent ecosystems are in danger, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect and preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
Sure! Here's an example of an introduction paragraph for your research paper on coral reefs:
Thesis statement: Coral reefs are not only breathtaking natural wonders but also essential ecosystems that support a rich diversity of plant and animal life. Unfortunately, these delicate structures are under threat from various human activities and environmental factors. Understanding the importance of coral reefs in terms of their ecological, economic, and protective benefits is crucial to devising effective conservation strategies. By examining the formation and characteristics of coral reefs, the threats they face, and their significance to both humans and the environment, this research paper aims to shed light on the urgent need to protect and preserve these valuable underwater habitats.
To write the introduction for your research paper, you can follow these steps:
1. Begin with a general statement about coral reefs to introduce the topic and capture the reader's attention. For example, you can start by describing the beauty and significance of coral reefs.
2. Provide some background information about coral reefs. Mention that they are limestone ridges formed by coral polyps, and explain how coral polyps secrete skeletons of limestone that accumulate over time.
3. Briefly discuss the different types of coral reefs and explain that they are found in shallow, warm, and clear saltwater environments due to the need for sufficient light for photosynthesis.
4. Highlight the biodiversity of coral reefs and their role as habitats for various plants and animals. Emphasize their complex structure and their importance in supporting a wide range of species.
5. Introduce the various ways in which coral reefs are beneficial to humans and the environment, such as shoreline protection, food and medicine resources, and economic benefits from tourism.
6. Transition to the challenges faced by coral reefs, such as human activities and environmental factors. Mention the staggering percentage of coral reefs in danger of destruction and explain some of the main threats, including water temperature changes, pollution, overfishing, and physical damage.
7. Conclude the introduction by restating the thesis statement, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the issues faced by coral reefs.
Remember to cite your sources properly throughout your research paper and to expand on the points mentioned in your introduction in the subsequent paragraphs. Good luck with your research paper!