Brazilian coral reefs in a period of global change: A synthesis

Brazilian coral reefs exhibit unique structures and compositions distinct from global models, featuring mushroom-shaped pinnacles ('chapeirões') built by low-diversity yet endemic coral species, many of which are relic forms from the Tertiary. These reefs, distributed across four major sectors along Brazil's coast—northern, northeastern, eastern regions, and oceanic islands—are surrounded by siliciclastic sediments and include bank reefs, fringing reefs, isolated pinnacles, and an atoll. While global coral bleaching events have impacted other reefs, Brazilian reefs showed no mass mortality during the 2010 warming event. However, human activities, such as sedimentation from deforestation and effluent discharge, pose significant threats, particularly near rapidly growing urban centers and expanding tourism zones.

Leão, Z. M. A. N., Kikuchi, R. K. P., Ferreira, B. P., Neves, E. G., Sovierzoski, H. H., Oliveira, M. D. M., Maida, M., Correia, M. D., & Johnsson, R. (2016). Brazilian coral reefs in a period of global change: A synthesis. Brazilian Journal of Oceanography, 64(spe2), 97–116. https://doi.org/10.1590/s1679-875920160916064sp2