Understanding Coral and Coral Bleaching

Dr. David Wackenfeld explains coral bleaching, a stress response where corals expel symbiotic plants due to harmful conditions. This leads to color loss and potential coral death. Various stressors, like temperature changes, can cause bleaching. While corals can recover if conditions improve, climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of bleaching events, hindering recovery.

What is the primary role of the microscopic plants living within coral tissue?

• To provide structural support

• To generate energy and sugars

• To protect coral from predators

• To help coral move

What color do corals typically appear when they are healthy?

• Pale white

• Deep blue

• Browny-green

• Bright red

What happens to coral when the relationship with its microscopic plants breaks down?

• The coral becomes more resistant to stress

• The coral starts to expel the plants

• The coral becomes more colorful

• The coral grows faster

What is the role of pigments produced by the coral itself during bleaching?

• They protect the coral from predators

• They become more visible as the coral expels plants

• They provide structural support

• They help the coral move

Which of the following is NOT a condition that can cause coral bleaching?

• Low temperatures

• High temperatures

• Excessive nutrients

• Increased salinity

What is the main cause of mass coral bleaching events?

• Pollution

• Temperature stress

• Predator attacks

• Lack of sunlight

How can corals recover from bleaching if the stress conditions are alleviated?

• By changing their color permanently

• By moving to a new location

• By regaining their microscopic plant cells

• By growing new skeletons

What is the consequence of prolonged temperature stress on corals?

• Corals become more vibrant

• Corals become immune to future stress

• Corals can die

• Corals grow faster

What is a critical factor for coral reef recovery after a bleaching event?

• Immediate human intervention

• Sufficient time for natural recovery

• Introduction of new coral species

• Removal of all pollutants

How does climate change affect the recovery of coral reefs?

• It decreases the frequency of bleaching events

• It increases the frequency and severity of bleaching events

• It increases the time available for recovery

• It has no impact on coral recovery