Coral Reefs: Facts and Impacts

Corals are animals related to jellyfish, forming reefs that support marine life. They have a symbiotic relationship with algae, which is crucial for their survival. Coral reefs protect shorelines, provide food, and support economies. However, climate change and human activities threaten them, causing bleaching events. Conservation efforts are essential to save these vital ecosystems.

What are corals most closely related to?

• Jellyfish

• Plants

• Rocks

• Fish

What percentage of the ocean floor do coral reefs cover?

• Less than 1%

• 50%

• 10%

• 25%

What is the term for the algae that live in coral tissues?

• Kelp

• Zooxanthellae

• Phytoplankton

• Seaweed

What happens to corals when they expel their algae?

• They become stronger

• They turn white

• They change color

• They grow faster

How much of the wave energy do coral reefs buffer?

• 97%

• 75%

• 50%

• 100%

Approximately how many people rely on coral reefs for food and income?

• 500 million

• 1 billion

• 100 million

• 2 billion

What is one of the economic benefits provided by coral reefs?

• Tourism

• Mining

• Deforestation

• Agriculture

What is the predicted impact of a 1.5°C increase in global temperature on coral reefs?

• Complete recovery

• No impact

• 90% loss

• 50% loss

What is a major cause of increased coral bleaching events?

• Overfishing

• Tourism

• Climate change

• Pollution

What do experts believe about the future of coral reefs?

• They will recover on their own

• They are beyond saving

• They are not important

• There is still hope for recovery