Definition: The word "coco reef" refers to a coral reef that has been invaded by invasive species such as algae, and which does not have natural control or management options. The term "coco reef" was coined in 1960 by John P. P. Sturges, who had visited the Coral Reef Research Station at Haldane in Australia where he was working as a biogeographer for the Department of Environment, Conservation and Natural Resources (DECNR). He noticed that some species from the sea were invading the coral reef. The term "coco reef" is also used to describe an area where the algae that populate the corals have taken over, leading to a decline in the health and resilience of the coral reefs. The invasive species are often referred to as "cocos," meaning "shells." The invasive species can cause the coral reefs to grow more quickly than it should, causing them to become overcrowded with more algae. The term has also been used to describe an area where there is no natural control or management option available for controlling the growth and spread of invasive species. This situation is referred to as "coco reef," which means that no effort has been made to manage the growing invasive population on its own. In summary, the word "coco reef" refers to a coral reef that has been invaded by invasive species and does not have natural control or management options available. It can cause a decline in the health and resilience of the coral reefs, leading to overcrowding with more algae. The term is also used to describe an area where there is no natural control or management option for controlling the growth and spread of invasive species.

Coco Reef