Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Quiz

Coral reefs are underwater structures made from calcium carbonate secreted by corals.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Coral reefs are indeed formed from calcium carbonate, which is secreted by corals. This process creates the underwater structures known as coral reefs, making the statement true.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

Coral bleaching is caused by the expulsion of symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel zooxanthellae, the symbiotic algae that provide them with nutrients and color, often due to stress from changes in temperature or light.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-6

NGSS.HS-LS4-5

Estuaries are partially enclosed coastal bodies of water with only saltwater from the ocean.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Estuaries are not solely saltwater; they are areas where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, making the statement false.

Barrier islands protect the mainland from erosion and storm surge.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Barrier islands act as natural buffers, absorbing wave energy and reducing the impact of storm surges on the mainland, thereby protecting it from erosion and flooding.

Turbidity currents are underwater flows of dense sediment that travel down the continental slope due to gravity.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Turbidity currents are indeed underwater flows of dense sediment that move down the continental slope, driven by gravity, making the statement accurate.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Which of the following is NOT a type of coastal water ecosystem?

• Coral reefs

• Estuaries

• Salt marshes

• Rainforests

Answer explanation

Rainforests are not coastal water ecosystems; they are terrestrial ecosystems. In contrast, coral reefs, estuaries, and salt marshes are all types of coastal ecosystems that interact with marine environments.

Coral reefs provide habitat, spawning grounds, and protection for diverse marine life. What is another important role they play?

• Carbon and nitrogen cycling

• Oxygen production

• Water purification

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Coral reefs play a crucial role in carbon and nitrogen cycling, which helps maintain the health of marine ecosystems. This process supports nutrient availability and overall biodiversity, making it essential for marine life.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

What are some of the benefits that coral reefs provide?

• Protect coastlines from erosion

• Provide habitats and shelter for marine life

• Source of food and tourism income

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Coral reefs offer multiple benefits: they protect coastlines from erosion, provide habitats for marine life, and serve as a source of food and tourism income. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-6

NGSS.HS-ESS3-1

Which of the following is NOT a cause of coral bleaching?

• Temperature changes

• Pollution

• Overfishing

• Increased sunlight

Answer explanation

Increased sunlight is not a direct cause of coral bleaching. While it can contribute to stress, the primary causes are temperature changes, pollution, and overfishing, which disrupt the coral's symbiotic relationship with algae.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

Estuaries serve as nurseries for many species of fish and also do which of the following?

• Protect coastlines from erosion

• Filter pollutants and improve water quality

• Offer recreational opportunities

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Estuaries protect coastlines from erosion, filter pollutants to improve water quality, and provide recreational opportunities. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-6