Coral

Definition

Coral refers to marine invertebrates that belong to the class Anthozoa, forming colonies composed of individual polyps that secrete calcium carbonate to create a hard skeleton. These organisms play a vital role in marine ecosystems, particularly in building coral reefs, which are essential habitats for numerous marine species and provide protection against coastal erosion. Coral is sensitive to environmental changes, making it a key indicator of ocean health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coral reefs cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support around 25% of all marine species, showcasing their immense biodiversity.
2. Coral polyps are small, soft-bodied organisms that are responsible for the growth and maintenance of coral reefs by secreting calcium carbonate.
3. Ocean warming due to climate change leads to coral bleaching, which occurs when corals expel their symbiotic zooxanthellae, causing them to turn white and become more susceptible to disease.
4. Increased carbon dioxide levels contribute to ocean acidification, which negatively affects coral growth and the structural integrity of reef systems.
5. Healthy coral reefs can act as natural barriers against storms, reducing wave energy and protecting coastal communities from erosion and flooding.

Review Questions

• How do corals contribute to marine biodiversity and what role do they play in ecosystem stability?
  • Corals are crucial for marine biodiversity as they form complex habitats known as coral reefs that support a vast array of marine life. By providing shelter and food sources, these reefs enable numerous species to thrive, from fish to invertebrates. The health of these ecosystems is vital not only for marine species but also for human communities that rely on them for fishing, tourism, and coastal protection.
• Discuss the impact of ocean warming on coral health and how this affects broader marine ecosystems.
  • Ocean warming leads to increased temperatures that can stress coral reefs, causing widespread coral bleaching. This not only jeopardizes the corals themselves but also disrupts the entire marine ecosystem dependent on them. When corals bleach, they lose their symbiotic zooxanthellae, resulting in diminished food sources for various marine organisms, thereby threatening their survival and altering the dynamics of the reef ecosystem.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of coral bleaching on coastal communities and global ecosystems.
  • The long-term consequences of coral bleaching are profound, affecting both coastal communities and global ecosystems. Economically, communities reliant on healthy reefs for fishing and tourism may face significant declines in income as fish populations dwindle due to habitat loss. Ecologically, the decline of coral reefs leads to decreased biodiversity and weakened coastal protection against storms and erosion. This degradation ultimately alters the balance of marine ecosystems worldwide, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts.

Related terms

Coral Reef: A diverse underwater ecosystem made up of coral structures that provide habitat for various marine species and contribute to biodiversity.

Zooxanthellae:

Symbiotic algae that live within coral tissues, providing energy through photosynthesis and contributing to the vibrant colors of coral.

Coral Bleaching:

A phenomenon where corals lose their color and vitality due to stress from environmental factors such as elevated water temperatures, leading to the expulsion of zooxanthellae.