Over the last three decades, coral-reef study has advanced rapidly, widening our understanding of their functional intricacy. These finely- tuned ecosystems have been exposed to many perils as a result of tourist pressure, anthropogenic eutrophication and pollution. A better understanding of coral reefs is therefore essential to their survival.This volume is built around the key problems underlying the understanding of the structure and function of coral reefs as ecosystems. In each of these research fronts, former accomplishments are summarized and evaluated, and likely future foci are identified. Special attention is given to the interrelations of the different problems and processes which are important properties of these systems.Coverage is given of recent advances in the understanding of the ways in which abiotic forces - like hydromechanics, light and nutrient regimes - have shaped the evolution and development of coral reefs. The roles of the various organisms that make up the reef community, in the harvesting, assimilation and transformation of energy and in the uptake, storage and recycling of nutrients, are analyzed. The ways to conserve coral reefs in the face of the increasing impact of various anthropogenic stresses are evaluated.This will be the central reference work for specialists and advanced students, active in all aspects of coral-reef research, and will provide them with a balanced, stimulating view of the many facets of contemporary coral-reef science.