What happens after coral is bleached?(1 point)
After coral is bleached, it may die if the stressor continues or persists, causing the colonies to become fragile and susceptible to disease. If the stressor is removed, some species of corals may recover and regain their color and normal functions. However, if the stressor is not mitigated, the coral will eventually die, and the reef ecosystem will be disrupted. The loss of coral reefs has significant impacts on both marine and human life, including reduced biodiversity, loss of habitat for fish and other marine organisms, and economic losses for industries that depend on coral reef ecosystems.
After coral is bleached, several things can happen. Here are the steps:
1. Coral bleaching occurs when the symbiotic algae (called zooxanthellae) living within the coral are expelled or lose their pigmentation due to stress factors such as increased water temperature, pollution, or nutrient overload.
2. Without zooxanthellae, which provide the coral with food through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colors, the coral becomes pale or completely white, hence the term "bleached."
3. If the stressor is removed and the coral is given enough time, it can potentially recover. It will reabsorb or acquire new zooxanthellae, leading to the re-coloration of the coral.
4. However, if the stressor continues or the coral remains without zooxanthellae for a prolonged period, the coral may die. This is because the lack of food from zooxanthellae weakens the coral, making it more susceptible to diseases and other threats.
5. Dead coral reefs can have severe consequences for marine ecosystems. They can result in the loss of biodiversity, reduced fish populations, decreased shoreline protection from storms, and damage to tourism and local economies.
It is crucial to address the underlying causes of coral bleaching, such as climate change and pollution, to protect and preserve these delicate ecosystems.