Question

Assume grooved brain coral requires sunlight, a high concentration of zooplankton (tiny floating organisms) in the water every evening, an open, solid place to attach that is close (not more than 3 meters underwater) to the surface, water temperature between 65 and 85 degrees F, and a water pH between 8.1 and 8.4. Aside from its early life as a tiny larva seeking an attachment site, coral has a sedentary lifestyle. During the day, its photosynthetic symbionts produce sugars and other nutritious chemicals; at night the coral polyps uncurl their tentacles and capture plankton out of the water. Which of the following is the best and most complete list of the resources, rather than the conditions, that the coral species requires?

A. Sunlight and a high concentration of zooplankton.

B. Sunlight, a high concentration of zooplankton, a solid spot close to surface where the coral can attach, water temperature between 65 and 85 degrees F, and a water pH between 8.1 and 8.4

C. Sunlight, a high concentration of zooplankton, and a solid spot close to surface where the coral can attach.

D. Water temperature 65 - 85 degrees F, and a water pH 8.1 - 8.4.

Answer 1

The best and most complete list of the resources, rather than the conditions, that the coral species requires are Sunlight, a high concentration of zooplankton, a solid spot close to surface where the coral can attach, water temperature between 65 and 85 degrees F, and a water pH between 8.1 and 8.4. (Option C)

Because the coral reef growth depends upon the Sunlight that means there are only limited in the Photic zone of the ocean and the photic zone is limited to about 50 to 100m of the depth to which sunlight can penetrate. below 100m the coral rarely develops.

Coral reefs need clear water to grow, which is in very low energy condition ( Not in beach Environment). If the water is mud rich than it is difficult for the growth of the coral.

The temperature provided is an optimal temperature beyond this the growth of the coral may inhibit.

A moderate level of salinity is required for the production of the coral reef because if the concentration of Salt increases than it can affect the skeletal structure of the coral reef as it is made of up CaCO₃ and other carbonate minerals.

Water should also well oxygenated and concentration of oxygen should also ample.