Bio Final Case Study

Question 1

Tentacles

Answer 1

Used for capturing prey (such as plankton) and directing it toward the mouth. They often contain stinging cells (nematocysts) for defense and feeding.

Question 2

Mouth

Answer 2

The opening through which the polyp ingests food and expels waste.

Question 3

Gastrovascular Cavity.

Answer 3

A central cavity that serves as the site for digestion and circulation of nutrients throughout the polyp.

Question 4

Endoderm

Answer 4

The inner cellular layer lining the gastrovascular cavity. It contains specialized cells for digestion and nutrient absorption.

Question 5

Zooxanthellae

Answer 5

Symbiotic algae residing within the endoderm. They perform photosynthesis, providing energy to the polyp in exchange for nutrients and a protected environment.

Question 6

Coenosarc

Answer 6

The tissue that connects individual polyps in a coral colony, enabling the sharing of nutrients and communication.

Question 7

Calyx

Answer 7

The cup-like skeletal structure that houses the polyp, providing protection and support.

Question 8

Theca

Answer 8

The vertical walls of the calyx, which enclose and protect the polyp.

Question 9

Basal Plate

Answer 9

The base of the skeletal structure where the polyp is anchored, allowing it to attach securely to the substrate

Question 10

How do tentacles assist in feeding the coral?


Answer 10

They move and retract to guide captured food toward the mouth.

Question 11

What do gland cells in the gastrovascular cavity release to break down prey?


Answer 11

Enzymes

Question 12

Cnidocytes

Answer 12

Specialized cells located on the coral’s tentacles. They are unique to cnidarians (a group that includes corals, jellyfish, and sea anemones).

Question 13

Nematocysts

Answer 13

Organelles within cnidocytes that act like tiny harpoons. When triggered by contact with prey, nematocysts eject, delivering a toxin that stuns or kills the prey

Question 14

How does the cnidocytes ands nematocysts help coral feed?

Answer 14

The nematocysts allow the coral to immobilize plankton or other small organisms, making them easier to ingest.

Question 15

How do stony corals build skeletons?

Answer 15

secreting calcium carbonate (CaCO3) from polyps, a process supported by their symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae

Question 16

what factors influence skeleton growth?

Answer 16

want low nutrients so no algal blooms
no acidic (low pH bc reduces CaCO3)
need sunlight for photosynthesis by zooxanthellae
warm tropical water

nutrients, sunlight, pH

Question 17

Coral Hobiont

Answer 17

Corals:
Zooxanthellae
Cyanobacteria:
Bacteria:
Fungi:
Viruses:

Question 18

Coral & Holobiont

Answer 18

The host organism that forms the reef structure/protection
- gives co2 to zooxanthellae

Question 19

Zooxanthellae & Coral Holobiont

Answer 19

Photosynthetic algae providing energy through photosynthesis
-sugar & O2 to coral

Question 20

Cyanobacteria & Coral Holobiont

Answer 20

Contribute to nitrogen fixation and organic carbon synthesis
- gives Ammonia to coral/zooxanthellae
-

Question 21

bacteria & Coral Holobiont

Answer 21

Perform diverse roles including nitrogen cycling and breakdown of organic matter
-in coral mucus

Question 22

Fungi & Coral Holobiont

Answer 22

Help in nutrient cycling and symbiotic interactions
-in coral skeleton

Question 23

Viruses & Coral Holobiont

Answer 23

Can affect coral health and community structure
-in coral tissue

Question 24

Coral bleaching & Zooxanthellae

Answer 24

Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel their zooxanthellae, losing their primary source of energy and their pigmentation. The absence of zooxanthellae turns corals white or pale, leaving them highly vulnerable

Question 25

Cyanobacteria & Importance

Answer 25

Cyanobacteria enhance coral nutrient availability and overall reef productivity by contributing to nitrogen fixation and organic carbon synthesis.

Question 26

Risks of Coral reefs

Answer 26

coral bleaching caused by ocean warming & acidification

Question 27

Explain what happens during coral bleaching, and the factors that are associated with it.

Answer 27

Coral bleaching involves the expulsion of zooxanthellae due to stress, leaving the coral white and vulnerable.
Increased absorption of atmospheric CO₂ by seawater, lowering pH levels makes bicarbonate (HCO3 + H+ high acidity)
acidification corrodes skeletons
warmer waters -> heat stress on coral eject zooxanthellae

Question 28

How do changes in the carbon cycle cause ocean acidification?

Answer 28

CO₂ emissions lead to more CO₂ dissolving in seawater, forming carbonic acid. This lowers ocean pH and reduces carbonate ions needed for coral skeleton formation.

Question 29

How do changes in the carbon cycle cause ocean acidification & affect coral

Answer 29

Impact on Corals: Weakens coral skeletons, slows growth, and makes them more vulnerable to erosion and damage.

Question 30

How do changes in the carbon cycle cause ocean warming?

Answer 30

Excess CO₂ traps heat in the atmosphere, raising global temperatures, including sea surface temperatures.

Question 31

How do changes in the carbon cycle cause ocean warming & affect coral

Answer 31

Elevated temperatures cause coral bleaching by disrupting the coral-zooxanthellae symbiosis, often leading to coral stress or death.

Question 32

How do stressors like heat or acidification affect energy balance in corals?


Answer 32

Stressors like heat or acidification can disrupt zooxanthellae photosynthesis, reducing energy production in corals and their ability to grow and survive.