Coral reefs are tropical shallow water ecosystem largely restricted to the areas between latitudes 30°N and 30°S. They rank among the most biologically productive and diverse of all natural ecosystems. Their high productivity stems from efficient biological recycling, high retention of nutrients and a structure that provide habitat for a vast array of other organism.

Eritrean is home to five of the world’s seven turtle species that are all threatened with extinction globally:

 Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

Green turtle (Chelonia mydas)

Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)

Loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta)

Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)