Question

1. how does coral bleaching directly affect the coral? (a) coral becomes stronger and grows faster. (b) coral loses its color and energy source. (c) coral attracts more fish to the reef. (d) coral produces more zooxanthellae algae. 3. *explain how increasing ocean temperatures can lead to incomplete text, likely related to an abiotic - factor. 4. why are coral reefs important to marine ecosystems? (a) they serve as a primary source of oxygen for the ocean. (b) they provide shelter and food for many marine species. (c) they prevent ocean currents from forming. (d) they are the only source of freshwater in the ocean.

Explanation:

1. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the symbiotic zooxanthellae algae living within their tissues. Zooxanthellae provide corals with color and energy through photosynthesis. When expelled, the coral loses its color and energy - source.
2. Increasing ocean temperatures can lead to coral bleaching. As an abiotic factor, higher temperatures stress corals, causing them to expel zooxanthellae. This disrupts the symbiotic relationship and can lead to coral death if the stress is prolonged.
3. Coral reefs are important to marine ecosystems as they provide shelter and food for many marine species. They are like underwater cities, offering habitats for a diverse range of organisms.

Answer:

1. B. Coral loses its color and energy source.
2. Higher ocean temperatures (an abiotic factor) stress corals, causing them to expel zooxanthellae, which can lead to bleaching and potentially death.
3. B. They provide shelter and food for many marine species.