This course will cover coral reef distributions, biogeography, and ecological processes important to reefs. Basic coral anatomy and physiology will be discussed. Reef fishes and their interaction with coral communities will be highlighted, along with coral reef fisheries. Modern threats to coral reefs, including thermal bleaching, ocean acidification and diseases of corals will be examined with particular emphasis on processes affecting the future status of reef communities. As a Ph.D. level course, assessment of students and participation expectations will be commensurate with the level of student experience.