Of the 14,000 identified marine fish, 8,000 live in association with coral reefs. Coral reefs are complex ecosystems – and coral reef fishes have evolved a high degree of specialization in morphology, physiology, and behavior. Conversely, reef fishes are a dominant structuring force on the coral reef ecosystem – having significant control over community dynamics. Through trophic interactions, such as herbivory, reef fishes are able to maintain a stable state of coral dominance through removal and prevention of macro- and microalgal overgrowth on corals. Reef fishes also contribute to carbonate cycling, such as through bioerosion by few species of triggerfishes and parrotfishes. Several more studies are discovering and describing other potential roles of fish on coral reef ecosystems, which include the function of corallivorous fish in slowing the progression and spread of coral diseases, among others.