Direct DestructionFor centuries, limestone--one of the main elements found in coral--was used in theconstruction of houses and other types of buildings. Although it was available from othersources, limestone from coral was the usual choice in areas near an ocean. Coral is also used injewelry making and to decorate fish tanks. Finally, some methods of fishing use explosions tobreak the coral reef apart. Although these practices are changing, much damage has alreadybeen done.