THE SOUTH WEST COAST

Periodically exposed to Atlantic swells with moderate surf. Most of the reefs are generally relic, fringing reefs leading out to a gently sloping sandy shelf. In depths of 6 -15m, there are extensive patch reefs.

At approximately 1000m from shore, the bank reef runs parallel to shore and is continuous with the west coast bank reef.

THE SOUTH EAST COAST

Fully exposed to the Atlantic swells, this coast offers good surfing but no actively growing fringing reefs
There is however a flat, shallow bank reef, 400-800m from shore running roughly parallel to it.

THE EAST COAST

Fully exposed to Atlantic swells Limestone pavements dominate the southern areas, with a generally gently sloping featureless ramp extending from the beach out to 40-60m (off the Scotland district).

Further north (off Pico Tenerife), the bottom type changes abruptly as a result of a submarine canyon. To the north of the canyon the shelf is terraced and carbonate rich, while to the south there is more siliclastic material and a gentler slope

THE NORTH COAST

There is a rock terrace which extends seaward from the base of the cliffs out to 60m.
Another terrace and isolated ridges and mounds is located seaward of this (runs parallel to shore)
The north west coast in particular is well sheltered and supports the most extensive and diverse hard coral reefs on the island.

IMPORTANCE OF REEFS

Beach creation and stabilisation
Fisheries
Medicinal
Aesthetic
Tourism

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