With too few tritons on the reef, crown-of-thorns starfish populations can explode, jeopardizing the living coral that makes up reefs. Covered with long, venomous spikes, the crown-of-thorns ...

Reef-safe sunscreens are a relatively new ... and sprays in the U.S. — are contributing to the deterioration of coral reefs, which are essential for the globe's marine life.

Otero, an amateur diver, pitched a visit to an unusual coral reef 100 miles off the coast of Texas ... and The Weather Channel did its own voiceover with Otero’s photos. Best of AP — Honorable Mention ...