Coral Reefs Flashcards
What are coral reefs?
Underwater ecosystems made of coral polyps that secrete calcium carbonate skeletons.
Where are coral reefs found?
Warm, shallow waters between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
What is the largest coral reef system in the world?
The Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
What is the second-largest reef system?
The Belize Barrier Reef.
Why are coral reefs called the ‘rainforests of the sea’?
They support 25% of all marine species.
What is the symbiotic relationship in coral reefs?
Coral provides a home for zooxanthellae algae, and the algae provide energy through photosynthesis.
Name a keystone species in coral reefs.
Parrotfish.
How do coral reefs support the food chain?
They provide food and habitats for fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
List three ways coral reefs benefit humans.
Provide food, protect coastlines, and boost tourism.
What is one medical benefit of coral reefs?
Reef organisms are used to create medicines for diseases like cancer.
What is coral bleaching?
Coral expels algae due to stress from rising sea temperatures, turning it white.
Name two man-made threats to coral reefs.
Pollution and overfishing.
What is ocean acidification?
Increased CO₂ makes oceans more acidic, weakening coral skeletons.
How can we reduce coral bleaching?
Reduce CO₂ emissions and combat climate change.
What is a solution to overfishing?
Create marine protected areas and enforce fishing restrictions.
