Marine Biology and Coral Reefs

Morgan Pratchett, a researcher at James Cook University, focuses on coral reef disturbances, including climate change and crown of thorns starfish outbreaks. His work involves field research and data analysis to understand and control these outbreaks. He also studies butterfly fish, which depend on coral, and shares his diving experiences on the Great Barrier Reef.

What inspired Morgan Pratchett to pursue a career in marine biology?

• His fascination with underwater photography

• His interest in marine animals

• His passion for the natural environment

• His love for the ocean

Which of the following is NOT a disturbance affecting coral reefs mentioned by Morgan?

• Coral bleaching

• Overfishing

• Climate change

• Crown of thorns starfish

What is the primary diet of crown of thorns starfish?

• Seaweed

• Coral

• Plankton

• Small fish

How many major outbreaks of crown of thorns starfish have been documented?

• Three

• Five

• Two

• Four

What is the current method used to control crown of thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef?

• Removing them manually

• Using traps

• Injecting individual starfish

• Introducing predators

What is the estimated number of crown of thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef?

• Between five and ten million

• Between one and three million

• Over ten million

• Between two and six million

What is a potential cause of crown of thorns starfish outbreaks?

• Decreased salinity

• Rising sea levels

• Increased tourism

• Excess nutrients

Which group of reef fishes is Morgan particularly interested in?

• Parrotfish

• Butterfly fish

• Angelfish

• Clownfish

How do butterfly fish respond to changes in coral availability?

• They become more aggressive

• They decrease in number

• They change their diet

• They migrate to deeper waters

Where is Morgan's favorite place to dive currently?

• The Great Barrier Reef

• The reef off Townsville

• The Indian Ocean

• The Pacific Ocean