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Corals have a mutualistic relationship with photosynthetic algae in the photic zones of water. What purpose does this serve? a. Corals are able to derive their nutrition from the algae and thus survive in the nutritionally poor water. b. Corals are able to accumulate calcium carbonate from the algae. c. They can form coral reefs because of this association. d. The corals provide protection to the algae.

Short Answer

Expert verified
a. Corals derive their nutrition from algae, allowing them to survive in poor water.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Relationship

Corals and photosynthetic algae (zooxanthellae) have a mutualistic relationship, meaning both organisms benefit from this association.
02

Identify the Benefit to Corals

Determine how corals benefit from the relationship with algae. Algae photosynthesize and provide essential nutrients to corals.
03

Understand Nutrient Supply

Recognize corals live in nutritionally poor waters. The algae aid corals by supplying organic compounds produced during photosynthesis.
04

Evaluate Options

Review each option and assess if it matches the identified benefit: a. Algae supply nutrients, enabling corals to survive in poor waters.b. There's no evidence of algae transferring calcium carbonate to corals.c. Coral reefs are a result of coral growth, facilitated by nutrient access.d. Corals do provide protection, but the main benefit is nutrient supply.
05

Select the Correct Answer

Option a is correct. Algae provide nutrition, allowing corals to thrive in areas where nutrients are otherwise scarce.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

coral and algae symbiosis
Corals and algae form a unique mutualistic relationship. This means both corals and algae benefit from living together.
Corals house the algae in their tissues. In return, the algae perform photosynthesis and provide essential nutrients to the corals. This helps corals thrive in nutrient-poor environments.
Corals give algae a safe place to live and access to sunlight. They also provide carbon dioxide and other compounds necessary for photosynthesis. This collaboration is crucial for the health and survival of both the corals and algae.
nutrient cycling in marine ecosystems
Nutrient cycling is essential for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. In the case of corals and algae, this cycling supports the growth of coral reefs. These reefs offer habitats to many marine species.
Algae perform photosynthesis and convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and organic compounds. These compounds provide energy and nutrients to corals. This nutrient exchange allows corals to grow and build calcium carbonate structures, forming the reef.
Coral reefs play a significant role in nutrient cycling by breaking down organic material and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. This process supports a diverse and balanced marine environment.
photosynthesis in aquatic environments
Photosynthesis in aquatic environments is vital for the survival of many marine organisms. Algae, including those living within corals, perform photosynthesis by utilizing sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.
In this process, they produce oxygen and energy-rich organic compounds. These compounds support not only the algae but also the corals they live with.
This photosynthetic activity is especially important in the photic zone, where sunlight penetrates the water. It drives the productivity of the ecosystem and supports various life forms.
Overall, photosynthesis in aquatic environments fuels the marine food web and sustains the diversity of marine life.

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