Coral Reefs Flashcards
What are corals classified as?
Invertebrate animals called polyps
What do corals secrete to form their hard external skeleton?
Calcium carbonate (limestone)
What is the primary role of zooxanthellae in coral polyps?
They share space, gas exchange, and nutrients
What is the significance of light for zooxanthellae?
They perform photosynthesis
Where are coral reefs typically found?
In upper ocean waters reached by sunlight
What are the three main types of coral reefs?
- Fringing Reef
- Barrier Reef
- Atoll Reef
Where is a Fringing Reef located?
Close to the shore or around an island
What characterizes a Barrier Reef?
Located far from an island, with a lagoon in between
What is an Atoll Reef?
A circular reef surrounding a lagoon, formed around a sunken island
Why are coral reefs in the Philippines significant?
They are among the richest in marine life and serve as nurseries for baby fishes
How do coral reefs contribute to people’s livelihoods in coastal areas?
They provide an endless supply of food and livelihood
Fill in the blank: Coral reefs house different kinds of _______.
fish
True or False: Coral reefs are solely beneficial for marine life and do not affect human livelihoods.
False
What is the relationship between corals and zooxanthellae?
Symbiosis
