Coral Bleaching and Climate Change: The Impact on Marine Ecosystems

The video explains coral bleaching as a stress response similar to a fever in humans. Corals and algae have a symbiotic relationship, and when stressed, they separate to survive. If stress is excessive, corals may die despite bleaching. Long-term effects include coral degradation and erosion, with climate change exacerbating heat stress, hindering coral recovery and adaptation.

How is coral bleaching similar to a fever in humans?

• Both lead to immediate death.

• Both are signs of recovery.

• Both are caused by bacteria.

• Both are responses to stress.

What role do algae play in the life of corals?

• They provide structural support.

• They give corals their color.

• They help corals move.

• They protect corals from predators.

What happens when corals and algae separate due to stress?

• Corals immediately die.

• Algae find new hosts.

• Corals lose their color.

• Algae become independent.

What is a potential outcome if the stress on corals is too severe?

• Corals grow faster.

• Corals become more colorful.

• Corals may die despite bleaching.

• Corals become immune to stress.

How long might it take to see the consequences of coral degradation?

• 1-2 years

• 5-10 years

• 10-20 years

• 30-40 years

What is a major driver of heat stress on coral reefs?

• Overfishing

• Tourism

• Pollution

• Climate change

Why are coral reefs struggling to cope with climate change?

• They are adapting too quickly.

• They are growing too rapidly.

• They are not adapting fast enough.

• They are receiving too much sunlight.

What is the impact of climate change on new coral recruits?

• They are growing larger than before.

• They are not adapting at a sufficient pace.

• They are adapting quickly.

• They are unaffected by climate change.