Which of these is evidence that coral reefs are vital habitats?
A.
They are disappearing.
B.
They are home to hundreds of species.
C.
They stop the spread of pollution.
D.
They can be created artificailly
B. They are home to hundreds of species.
B. They are home to hundreds of species.
Coral reefs are known to support and provide a habitat for a rich diversity of marine life. These habitats are often home to hundreds, even thousands, of different species. The intricate structure of coral reefs provides shelter, breeding grounds, and food sources for a wide range of organisms, including fish, invertebrates, and other marine life. This evidence demonstrates the vital role coral reefs play in supporting and sustaining diverse ecosystems.
The correct answer is B. They are home to hundreds of species.
To determine the correct answer, it's important to understand what constitutes evidence for something being a vital habitat. In the case of coral reefs, evidence of their importance as vital habitats can be evaluated based on several factors: biodiversity, ecological functions, and ecological dependencies.
Option A states that coral reefs are disappearing. While the decline of coral reefs can indicate their significance and vulnerability, it does not directly serve as evidence that they are vital habitats.
Option B correctly presents evidence of the importance of coral reefs as vital habitats. Coral reefs are known to support high levels of biodiversity, making them home to hundreds (if not thousands) of species. They serve as nurseries, shelters, and feeding grounds for various organisms, including fish, invertebrates, and even some marine mammals.
Option C suggests that coral reefs stop the spread of pollution. Although coral reefs can act as natural buffers, filtering pollutants and sediment from the water, this option overstates their ability to completely halt pollution. Therefore, it is not a direct piece of evidence for their being vital habitats.
Option D indicates that coral reefs can be created artificially. While this is true, the ability to create artificial coral reefs does not inherently establish their significance as vital habitats. Artificial reefs are often created to supplement or restore natural reefs, but the presence of artificial coral reefs alone does not provide evidence of coral reefs being vital habitats.
In conclusion, option B - "They are home to hundreds of species" - serves as evidence supporting the statement that coral reefs are vital habitats.