What happens after coral is bleached?
a
The coral produces peroxides.
b
The coral is susceptible to starvation.
c
The coral releases algae onto a sand dune.
d
The coral dies immediately.
b. The coral is susceptible to starvation.
The correct answer is: b) The coral is susceptible to starvation.
Explanation: When coral undergoes bleaching, it loses its symbiotic relationship with algae called zooxanthellae, which provide the coral with essential nutrients through photosynthesis. Without these algae, the coral becomes pale or white, hence the term "bleaching." Without the supply of nutrients from the algae, the coral is more susceptible to starvation, as it relies on them for a significant portion of its energy needs. If the bleaching persists for extended periods, the coral may eventually die if it fails to recover or re-establish its symbiotic relationship with the algae. It's important to note that not all bleached coral automatically dies, as some may recover if conditions improve and the algae are able to return.
When coral is bleached, it loses its symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae, which provide the coral with energy through photosynthesis. This loss of algae leads to several subsequent events. The correct answer is:
b) The coral is susceptible to starvation.
Without the algae, the coral becomes more vulnerable to starvation as it relies heavily on the energy produced by the algae. The coral can survive for a while after bleaching, but if it doesn't regain its algae or recover in time, it may eventually die due to starvation and other stressors.