What is a consequence of coral bleaching?

What is a consequence of coral bleaching?

• A. Bleached corals become more resilient
• B. They begin to deteriorate if conditions do not improve
• C. They set the stage for new coral growth
• D. They attract more marine life

Answer: (B)

When coral reefs experience bleaching, it typically means that the corals have expelled the algae (zooxanthellae) that live in their tissues, which provide them with color and vital nutrients through photosynthesis. This process is often triggered by stressors such as elevated water temperatures, pollution, or changes in water quality. As a consequence of this bleaching, the corals become weakened and unable to thrive without their symbiotic algae. If the environmental conditions do not improve and the corals do not regain their algae, they may begin to deteriorate. This deterioration can lead to coral death, which not only impacts the reef ecosystem but also affects the diverse marine life that depends on corals for habitat and food. Thus, the correct answer points to the fact that bleached corals, when subjected to continued stress, are likely to face further decline, leading to significant ecological consequences.

When coral reefs experience bleaching, it typically means that the corals have expelled the algae (zooxanthellae) that live in their tissues, which provide them with color and vital nutrients through photosynthesis. This process is often triggered by stressors such as elevated water temperatures, pollution, or changes in water quality. As a consequence of this bleaching, the corals become weakened and unable to thrive without their symbiotic algae.

If the environmental conditions do not improve and the corals do not regain their algae, they may begin to deteriorate. This deterioration can lead to coral death, which not only impacts the reef ecosystem but also affects the diverse marine life that depends on corals for habitat and food. Thus, the correct answer points to the fact that bleached corals, when subjected to continued stress, are likely to face further decline, leading to significant ecological consequences.