New findings suggest that, due to rising levels of carbon dioxide in the air and an increase in the acidity of the oceans, most coral reefs that exist today will disintegrate by the end of the century. If carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, what is the most likely effect on marine organisms that rely on these reefs for food and shelter?

Question

New findings suggest that, due to rising levels of carbon dioxide in the air and an increase in the acidity of the oceans, most coral reefs that exist today will disintegrate by the end of the century. If carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, what is the most likely effect on marine organisms that rely on these reefs for food and shelter?

Their numbers and diversity will be drastically reduced.
They will be able to use the area for shelter, but will have to travel to find food.
Their ability to reproduce will increase as competition for space decreases.
They will be forced to adapt to living in different areas.

Answer 1

The most likely effect on marine organisms that rely on coral reefs for food and shelter if carbon dioxide levels continue to rise is that their numbers and diversity will be drastically reduced.