Fringing Reefs
Fringing reefs are directly attached to a shore. They are the most common type of reef and can be found in the Caribbean and the Red Sea.
Barrier Reefs
Barrier reefs are parallel to the coastline but are separated by deeper, wider lagoons. Australia's Great Barrier Reef is the most famous example.
Atolls
Atolls are ring-shaped coral reefs, islands, or series of islets. They surround a lagoon and the water is usually turquoise!
Patch Reefs
Patch reefs are small, isolated patches of coral. They are often found between fringing and barrier reefs.
