Sunken Ship. (Tiny Habitats

A Spanish galleon that sank in 1733 gradually becomes the center of an underwater ecosystem. Algae and sea lettuce first settle in the wooden wreck, and the book tracks the developing reef after one year, one decade, and one century. The resulting reef community offers sea life a protected place to live. It also helps limit erosion and reduces ocean surges during storms. An endnote identifies the Florida Keys wreck and discusses research on sunken ships.