American scientists have reported the first successful sexual reproduction of Atlantic coral in a laboratory setting. Researchers at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa recently announced their results. They described them as a scientific breakthrough. Scientists believe the reproduction method could help save Atlantic corals in danger of disappearing completely. Corals are groups of small organisms called polyps. These polyps live within a hard skeleton made of limestone. Millions of corals grow together to form coral reefs. The reefs support many kinds of sea life. Coral reefs also support fishing activities and protect inland waterways.