The extraordinary biodiversity of the coral reefs provides us with food, natural compounds for medicine, shoreline protection against strong waves and regulation of carbon dioxide levels in the seas.

In turn, the reefs rely on us for protection. Without our commitment to their conservation, this treasure trove of life - one of the oldest eco-systems on Earth - will vanish, and with it, discovery, knowledge and wonderment.

This year's Care-for-Nature Stamp Series features native inhabitants of our coral reefs: the Hawksbill Turtle and Remora [$1.10] and the Sea Urchin and Razorfish [$1.10], the Singapore Goby and Blind Shrimp [1st Local], the Sea Anemone and False Clown Anemonefish [1st Local].

This is the 17th Care-For-Nature [CFN] stamp issue sponsored by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation.