Tsunami waves can
coral reefs. Tsunami waves also drag sediment from coastlines into the ocean, which can
coral reefs and
sunlight that zooxanthellae need to photosynthesize.
damage, bury, and block
Tsunami waves can cause significant damage to coral reefs. When these powerful waves hit the reefs, they can break, crush, or uproot corals, causing physical damage. Additionally, the force of the waves can dislodge and drag corals, rocks, and other debris, which can then bury the reefs under sediments. This burial can block sunlight from reaching the corals and the symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues.
Sunlight is essential for zooxanthellae to carry out photosynthesis, a process that provides energy and nutrients to corals. Without sufficient sunlight, zooxanthellae may not be able to produce enough energy for themselves and the corals. This can lead to a stressful condition called bleaching, where corals expel their zooxanthellae and turn white. If the blockage of sunlight persists for an extended period, the corals can starve and die, ultimately leading to the degradation of the entire reef ecosystem.