Understanding Coral Reefs and Bleaching

What happens to corals during coral bleaching?

• They turn bright colors

• They expel their algae and turn white

• They grow faster

• They get stronger

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What causes coral bleaching?

• Cold temperatures

• Overfishing

• High water temperatures

• Pollution

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What do corals rely on to get food?

• Tiny fish

• Zooxanthellae algae

• Seaweed

• Plankton

What is one major threat to coral reefs?

• Too much sunshine

• Climate change and warm waters

• Too much rain

• Overwatering

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Why are coral reefs important?

• They are home to many fish and marine species

• They help reduce pollution

• They provide food for humans

• They keep the water cold

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What is ocean acidification?

• Water that is too salty

• Water becoming more acidic because of carbon dioxide

• Water that gets too warm

• Water that’s too fresh

What can help protect coral reefs from human damage?

• Use reef-safe sunscreen

• Removing all the fish

• Stopping all ocean activity

• Adding chemicals to the water

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What happens when ocean temperatures rise too much?

• Coral reefs grow bigger

• Coral reefs get stronger

• Corals may bleach and die

• Fish thrive

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What is one thing tourists can do to help coral reefs?

• Touch the corals

• Throw trash in the ocean

• Avoid stepping on the coral or anchoring boats on reefs

• Take coral home as souvenirs

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Why are coral reefs sometimes called "rainforests of the sea"?

• Because they are full of plants

• Because they are home to many different species of animals

• Because they are mostly made of trees

• Because they are always raining

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