Coast Gateway 2

Question 1

Pressures threatening coral reefs

Answer 1

• climate change
• overcollection of corals
• destructive fishing methods
• recreational use of coast
• coastal reclamation

Question 2

Climate change

Answer 2

1. Rapid changes in sea level and temperatures may be faster than the ability of coral reefs and its associated life forms to adjust
2. Impact of global warming can lead to coral bleaching when higher sea temperatures result in the loss of algae

The 1998 bleaching Catastrophe decrease live coral cover by 97% in some areas in Seychelles

Question 3

Overcollection of corals

Answer 3

1. People collect coral reefs excessively for personal or commercial use
2. This weakens the coral reef ecosystem, destroying coral reef habitats and making them more prone to threats
3. By purchasing jewelry and souvenirs made of corals, consumers unknowingly contribute to thr destruction of coral reefs

Indonesia is the world’s largest exporter of coral reefs
1. In may 2018 the indonesian government has shut down all exports of coral reefs as they coral reefs are endangered

Question 4

Destructive fishing methods

Answer 4

1. Include dynamite blasting and use of cyanide to stun and spear fish
2. Coral reef habitats are destroyed as blasting can destoy over 200 square feet of corals
3. Cyanide poisons and kills corals which are more vulnerable to this poision than fishes are
4. Selective depletion in fish population can disruot food chains in ecosystem
5. Spearfishig of parrotfish which feed on algae can lead to increased growth of algae affecting corals

United Nations Environment Program
1. Reported that 97% of coral reefs in Philippines are endangered due to destructive fishing techniques, deforestation and urbanisation