 |
| Underwater Photography By Photographer: Ron Richman Tucson, Arizona All rights reserved - 2006. rjrichman@ecomocean.com |
 |
|
 |
 |
| "Our oceans are under attack from pollution and global warming. The importance that our oceans play in our very survival cannot be understated. The more we human beings can learn to appreciate both the beauty and importance of the ocean, perhaps the more we will do to protect it. These images are an attempt to express the joy that diving has brought me and to hopefully share some of that joy and the awesome color and beauty that we must not lose." Ron Richman Start your collection today! Visit an exhibit of Ron's work at the Tucson Jewish Community Center. Exhibit Description Coral Reefs are called the Rainforests of the Sea. This is because they are home to an amazingly vast variety of plants and animals - some of which are even now probably not known to mankind. Aside from the environmental importance of this diverse ecosystem, Coral Reefs are of great economic interest as they provide valuable and much-needed sources of food, medicine, and other daily use products. They also promote income sources for the Tourism Industry - Diving Tours, Shops, Hotels, Restaurants, and other such related businesses. Coral Reefs protect the shorelines from eroding by absorbing the impact of the stronger, more destructive waves. Much of the Florida Keys would be underwater now if it weren't for the coral reefs surrounding its shorelines. Reefs also provide shelters, ports, and harbors for the economically viable coastal wetlands. Coral reefs absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and help reduce Global Warming. Unfortunately Coral Reefs have not had the extensive public relations campaign that Rain Forests have been able to garner. As a result, necessary protection and concern has not been accorded coral systems, and they continue to decline. To date almost 10% of all coral reefs have been destroyed, and it is estimated that 70% will be destroyed within 20-40 years, either by global warming or pollution. If we are to stop the destruction we must learn to appreciate not only the economic importance but also the unbelievable beauty that is the coral reef. Unfortunately few will actually get the opportunity to experience this beauty and diversity first hand. My photography is an attempt to bring the joy and appreciation of reef systems to a greater audience. Ron Richman |