The North Reef Biotope

Occurs in the northern half of the reef tract between North Rock and northeast breakers. It is characterized by abundant coral (Diploria is more abundant than Montastrea), coralline algae, Homotrema, alcyonarians (gorgonian coral) and hydrozoan. The framework builders extend to the sea surface. Montastrea occurs principally in the encrusting form and Millepora and Homotrema form low, knobby growths indicative of high energy environment where the colonies must resist surge from breaking waves.

The North Reef Biotope contributes debris from reef dwelling organisms plus a high percentage of coralline alga detritus to the sediments.