What is a primary reason corals absorb wave energy?

Corals primarily absorb wave energy to protect the shoreline from erosion. By dissipating the force of waves, coral reefs serve as natural barriers, reducing the impact of powerful waves that can erode coastlines and cause damage to coastal habitats and human structures. This functional role is crucial for maintaining the integrity of ecosystems along the shore and provides important benefits for human communities near marine environments. By mitigating wave energy, coral reefs also create a calmer aquatic environment that allows for greater biodiversity and the flourishing of various marine species, but the primary reason for absorbing this energy is primarily focused on coastal protection.