Question

a sudden rise in average ocean temperature causes a major decline in coral reef health. which claim best explains why this could lead to the extinction of other species? warmer temperatures increase oxygen levels, which helps all species thrive. coral reefs provide a habitat for other species. most ocean species can easily move to land when conditions change. environmental changes only affect a single species, not entire ecosystems.

Explanation:

• Option A is incorrect because warmer ocean temperatures generally decrease oxygen levels in water, and it would not help all species thrive.
• Option B is correct as coral reefs are a crucial habitat for many marine species. If coral reef health declines, species dependent on them for shelter, food, etc., face extinction risk.
• Option C is incorrect as most ocean species are adapted to aquatic environments and cannot easily move to land.
• Option D is incorrect as environmental changes (like ocean temp rise) affect entire ecosystems, not just single species.

Answer:

B. Coral reefs provide a habitat for other species.