The Structure and Distribution of Coral Reefs noted the location of the different types of coral around the reef and in the lagoon. In his diary, he described, "examining the very interesting yet simple structure & origin of these islands. The water being unusually smooth, I waded in as far as the living mounds of coral on which the swell of the open sea breaks. In some of the gullies & hollows, there were beautiful green & other colored fishes, & the forms & tints of many of the Zoophites were admirable. It is excusable to grow enthusiastic over the infinite numbers of organic beings with which
Réunion's coral reef and paragliding. Many diving schools suggest training sessions and first dives at reef sites. Local businesses, organizations, and government localities organize photography contests and other events to boost tourism around the reef. In a recent study, specialists estimated the benefits of leisure activities such as scuba diving to be above €2,076,150, water sports above €118,018, and diving boats and submarines above €1,851,614. The coral reef influences the price of local housing; homes close to a beach protected by corals enjoy lower real estate prices. Réunion's coral reef Réunion is an island located near the eastern coast of Madagascar in the