Sediment

A gelatinous substance secreted by the ectodermis and used for protection, to aid in food capture, or to remove sediment and waste. Mucus is usually moved by cilia.

An isolated reef, often found on top of underwater hills. They do not have a coral rim and are often crescent-shaped with a wide blanket of sediment behind it. Also referred to as a bank reef.

Water that is not absorbed by soil and carried to waterways and bodies of water. Along the way excess nutrients, pathogens, toxins, and sediment are picked up and transported by the water.

Sediment particles suspended in the water. Occurs when sediment is broken down by weathering and erosion and is transported by land or air to water sources such as rivers, oceans, and lakes.

A type of reef formation that extends seaward. Spurs refer to the areas that form parallel ridges of coral growth. They are separated by grooves that contain sediment and coral rubble.