Barrier Reefs

 

The second type of reef is the barrier reef. Barrier reefs stretch out farther into the ocean than fringing reefs, cutting off all water circulation from the shore. Only a lagoon separates two different barrier reefs. They are usually found 1/2 to 3 miles from shore, but can also be found farther out than that.

Barrier reefs are the biggest type of reef. The coral growth of a barrier reef continues outward.

Barrier reefs need warm water (73-80 degrees Fahrenheit) to survive. They can also survive rough waters.