Do Now_Coral Reef Population Flashcard

Front

What is coral bleaching and what causes it?

Back

Coral bleaching is when corals turn white because they expel tiny plants called algae that live inside them. It is caused by warming ocean waters due to global warming.

Front

What are two key factors that help coral reefs recover from bleaching?

Back

1) Water depth (reefs deeper than 6.6 meters recover better) 2) Complex, branching reef shapes at least 30 centimeters high

Front

Why might deeper water help corals survive bleaching events?

Back

Deeper water is cooler because the warmest water is near the surface. This helps corals avoid the highest temperatures that cause bleaching.

Front

What role do fish play in helping coral reefs recover?

Back

Fish that eat seaweed help keep the reef clean, preventing seaweed from taking over and allowing young corals to grow.

Front

How do human activities affect coral reefs? List two examples.

Back

1) Pollution increases nutrients and sediment that harm reefs. 2) Overfishing reduces the number of fish that graze on seaweed, harming reef recovery.

Front

Why might marine reserves not always protect reefs?

Back

Even though marine reserves had more seaweed-eating fish, other factors like water depth, reef shape, and pollution levels were more important for reef recovery.

Front

What is ocean acidification and how does it affect coral reefs?

Back

Ocean acidification happens when the ocean absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making the water more acidic. This slows coral growth and can dissolve coral skeletons.

Front

Why is it important to reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere for coral reef survival?

Back

Reducing CO2 helps slow global warming and ocean acidification, which are major threats to coral reefs.

Front

What two actions would you take to help protect the reefs?

Back

1) Reduce pollution and sediment runoff into the ocean. 2) Protect fish populations that eat seaweed by regulating fishing.