What describes the relationship between coral polyps and symbiotic algae?

What describes the relationship between coral polyps and symbiotic algae?

• A. Competitive relationship for resources
• B. Mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship where both provide nutrients and habitat to each other
• C. Relationship based on predation
• D. Only beneficial for coral polyps

Answer: (B)

The relationship between coral polyps and symbiotic algae, particularly zooxanthellae, is best described as a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship. In this partnership, both organisms contribute to each other's survival and growth. Coral polyps provide a protected environment and the necessary nutrients that the algae need to perform photosynthesis. In return, the algae produce oxygen and organic compounds, such as glucose, through photosynthesis, which serve as a crucial food source for the coral. This interdependence is essential for the health of coral reefs, as it allows the coral to thrive in nutrient-poor waters. The process not only supports the individual organisms involved but also contributes to the overall ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and stability within the reef environment. This mutual exchange of resources highlights the significance of their relationship, making it crucial for both organisms' prosperity.

The relationship between coral polyps and symbiotic algae, particularly zooxanthellae, is best described as a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship. In this partnership, both organisms contribute to each other's survival and growth. Coral polyps provide a protected environment and the necessary nutrients that the algae need to perform photosynthesis. In return, the algae produce oxygen and organic compounds, such as glucose, through photosynthesis, which serve as a crucial food source for the coral.

This interdependence is essential for the health of coral reefs, as it allows the coral to thrive in nutrient-poor waters. The process not only supports the individual organisms involved but also contributes to the overall ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and stability within the reef environment. This mutual exchange of resources highlights the significance of their relationship, making it crucial for both organisms' prosperity.