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Coral reefs rank among the most beautiful places on Earth. They are majestic, teeming with wildlife, and beautiful beyond compare—a rainbow of colors blossoms before you – a glorious underwater extravaganza of diverse organisms. The magnificent color spectrum undergoes modifications since light refracts while passing through water.
The traditional red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet (ROYGBIV) encompass the broadest variety of shades, hues, and tones on the color spectrum of the reefs. Red is typically absorbed in the water, making red-colored fish difficult for predators to see. That’s precisely why nocturnal fish are dark shades of orange or red.
The brightly-colored reef fish come in various shades, including the brightest blue, green, yellow, and orange hues. In their natural habitat, these fish are perfectly camouflaged from predators. Those fish with intricate designs, patterns, and shapes on their bodies tend to school together in large numbers, confusing predator fish and making them difficult targets.
Indeed, substantial numbers of coral reef animals possess chromatophores. These skin cells can create colors, patterns, and designs through light manipulation and pigment. They can either attract prey animals or scare off predators. Importantly, these chromatophores are used for reproduction by attracting mates.
Many fish see ultraviolet light (UV light). These are known as planktivores. Under UV light, plankton appears black, making it much easier for these fish to find. Mantis shrimp have complex eye structures designed with 16 unique types of photoreceptors. They can see light that human beings cannot.
Plus, they have polarization and UV light capabilities. According to research, humans only have four photoreceptors. Predatory animals and large fish that dwell among the other fish on coral reefs are mainly colorblind. They can’t see all the beautiful colors that human beings and other fish can see in the coral reefs. They rely on color, contrast, and countershading to find their prey.
The Prevalence of Reefs in Land-Based Entertainment Enclaves
Naturally, coral reefs are wildlife sanctuaries and havens for many marine creatures. A typical fish reef is a site to behold and a rarity for most. Today, we see increasing numbers of tourists taking to coral reefs and fish reefs around the world. Coral reefs are typically located in tropical and subtropical oceans or seas, varying between between 35° north and 35° south. Reef-building corals are found off the coast of Africa, India, Southeast Asia, Australia, and Central and South America.
For those who have yet to experience the beauty of a fish reef, enjoying a virtual sampling is undoubtedly worthwhile. Like many of the beautiful elements of planet Earth, our cultural Zeitgeist has incorporated fish reefs into the daily menu offering. Social games like Fish Reef offer a compelling presentation of nature’s most beautiful creations.
Ostensibly, the beauty of reefs has permeated the lives of entertainment aficionados from north to south and east to west. Owing to their striking beauty, diverse ecosystems, and association with tropical paradises, reefs have a special place in our entertainment culture.
They support beautiful storytelling and fabulous imagery that evoke a sense of adventure, exploration, and underwater wonderment. Plus, there’s the very real vulnerability that human beings feel in such a dreamscape. At most, we can briefly explore this scintillating paradise, knowing that time is limited.
Satiating Our Curiosity of Fish Reefs
The social gaming scene capitalizes on our fascination with beautiful fish reefs and coral reefs by presenting us with striking games that are adventure-laden, entertaining, and engaging. Indeed, the movie world is filled with reef-themed flicks, from Avatar to Finding Nemo and the legendary Little Mermaid. Land lovers are spoiled for choice.
On TV, we have the inevitable SpongeBob SquarePants, who lives in a coral reef–like environment. The Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and other ocean-themed cable networks regularly showcase sharks in reefs and the amazing bio diversity available in these rich habitats.
Some people have likened the beauty of the coral reef to going back in time to another world. Such is the beauty of a naturally created paradise, teeming with more wildlife forms than one can imagine.
Thriving coral reefs may be populated with schools of Silver Jacks, Clownfish, Humphead Wrasse, Regal Blue Tang, Leafy Sea Dragon, Lionfish, Mandarinfish, Emperor Angelfish, Picasso Triggerfish, Ribboned Sweetlips, and Pufferfish. With so much to see, it’s no wonder we take to the virtual world to get our fix of this beautiful environment. Fortunately, in the social gaming arena, it’s safe with no venomous sea serpents lurking in the shadows!
