GEOLOGY
Geology can be described as the complex structure of rock formations, which occur in specific locations and sequences. Geology has a major influence on most other features of the landscape such as land form, soil, topography and vegetation.
South Africa has a very complex geological history dating back millions of years, and some of the oldest rocks on earth have been found here. Many geological formations in South Africa are rich in mineral deposits, and some formations have become world renowned, such as the Witwatersrand quartzites (gold), the Bushveld Igneous Complex (platinum) and the coal deposits found in formations of the Karoo sediments.
The maps in this section show lithology, which is a detailed description of rock types; geological association, which is a grouping of geological formations into larger associated units; and rock types, a classification of rock formations into three major types: sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic. The Karoo complex covers about half of the surface area of South Africa. It can be clearly seen from the geological association map.
A prominent feature of South African geology is the Cape Folded Mountains. These mountains cover most of the southern tip of South Africa and were formed as result of continental movement millions of years ago. Larger areas of sand cover the northern and central areas of the country, where Kalahari deposits have been transported by wind to cover major portions of land north of the Molopo and Orange River drainage systems.
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Coral reefs 
Coral reefs can be ranked as one of the world's most spectacular and breathtaking wonders. They are home to over 25% of all marine life. Up to 3 000 species may co-exist on a single reef with fish densities 100 times greater than the ocean average. But coral reefs are also among the most fragile and endangered ecosystems on earth. In the last few decades mankind has destroyed over 14 million hectares of coral reef. If the current rate of destruction continues, 70% of the world’s coral reefs will be killed within our lifetime. In South Africa coral reefs are limited to the northernmost part of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. For more information:
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