What is a major factor contributing to the threat of coral reefs?

What is a major factor contributing to the threat of coral reefs?

• A. Invasive species introduction
• B. Overfishing practices
• C. Marine plastic debris accumulation
• D. Excessive tourism

Answer: (C)

Marine plastic debris accumulation significantly contributes to the threat of coral reefs. When plastic waste ends up in marine environments, it can harm coral ecosystems in several ways. Plastics can physically damage corals by smothering them or blocking sunlight, which is vital for their survival. Additionally, as plastic breaks down into microplastics, these smaller particles can be ingested by marine organisms, potentially entering the food chain and harming various marine life that relies on healthy coral ecosystems. While invasive species, overfishing, and excessive tourism also pose serious threats to coral reefs, the accumulation of marine plastic debris has garnered particular attention due to its pervasive nature and the way it affects multiple aspects of marine life and habitat health. Each of these other factors disrupts the delicate balance of the reef ecosystems, but the widespread impact of plastic pollution serves as a critical concern for coral health and conservation efforts.

Marine plastic debris accumulation significantly contributes to the threat of coral reefs. When plastic waste ends up in marine environments, it can harm coral ecosystems in several ways. Plastics can physically damage corals by smothering them or blocking sunlight, which is vital for their survival. Additionally, as plastic breaks down into microplastics, these smaller particles can be ingested by marine organisms, potentially entering the food chain and harming various marine life that relies on healthy coral ecosystems.

While invasive species, overfishing, and excessive tourism also pose serious threats to coral reefs, the accumulation of marine plastic debris has garnered particular attention due to its pervasive nature and the way it affects multiple aspects of marine life and habitat health. Each of these other factors disrupts the delicate balance of the reef ecosystems, but the widespread impact of plastic pollution serves as a critical concern for coral health and conservation efforts.