Coral Reefs Are Dying. But They Don't Have To.

Coral reefs, covering less than 1% of the sea floor, are vital to marine biodiversity and human economies. However, they face severe threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Scientists are exploring innovative restoration techniques like micro-fragmentation and genetic research to help reefs adapt and survive. These efforts aim to preserve these crucial ecosystems and provide insights into broader ecological adaptations.

What percentage of the sea floor do coral reefs cover, and what fraction of marine life do they support?

• 10% of the sea floor, supporting half of marine life

• 1% of the sea floor, supporting a quarter of marine life

• 2% of the sea floor, supporting a fifth of marine life

• 5% of the sea floor, supporting a third of marine life

How do coral reefs help protect shorelines?

• By providing habitats for fish

• By absorbing carbon dioxide

• By blocking the full force of storms and surges

• By filtering pollutants from the water

What happens to corals when ocean waters become more acidic?

• They grow faster

• They become more colorful

• They struggle to form strong exoskeletons

• They produce more nutrients

What is the phenomenon called when corals lose their algae and turn white?

• Coral Dimming

• Coral Bleaching

• Coral Fading

• Coral Whitening

What is the process called where scientists break coral into fragments to help them grow faster?

• Coral Splitting

• Coral Fragmentation

• Micro-fragmentation and Fusion

• Coral Division

What are scientists hoping to achieve by studying coral DNA?

• To change the color of corals

• To understand how corals can adapt to changing conditions

• To make corals grow larger

• To make corals more attractive to tourists

What is the ultimate goal of coral genetic research?

• To eliminate coral bleaching

• To increase coral tourism

• To save all coral reefs

• To create super corals that are more resilient