karang

Karang is a word in Indonesian and Malay that primarily denotes a coral reef. In marine biology and coastal geography, karang refers to a coral assemblage that forms a reef or reef-associated ecosystem, typically found in tropical and subtropical seas. The term is used across the Malay-speaking world and appears in many place names to indicate coastlines, islands, or features connected with reefs.

In dental terminology, karang gigi specifically refers to tartar or dental calculus. The standalone karang is not commonly used for dental deposits, and its primary sense remains marine in ordinary usage.

Geographically, numerous locations in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and other Malay-speaking regions incorporate karang in their names, reflecting historical or current reef features or near-shore geography. These toponyms often help distinguish coastal settlements, islands, or reefs.

Conservation and ecology: Coral reefs, including karang habitats, are biodiversity hotspots that provide ecosystem services such as coastal protection, fisheries, and tourism. They are sensitive to warming temperatures, ocean acidification, overfishing, and pollution. Protection and sustainable management—such as marine protected areas and reef restoration—are widely pursued to preserve karang ecosystems.