What happens when corals exceed their normal temperatures for too long of a period of time?

a. Coral polyps overheat and die
b. Corals eject their zooxanthellae
c. Corals break down their shells
d. Corals increase their zooxanthallae


ANS: B
If water returns to normal temperatures within a reasonable amount of time, the algal populations will
return. However, if the stress occurs for too long, the algae will be replaced by other species or
decomposers. These species will then take over the coral. Information can be found in the section
Organisms Cannot Prosper if Their Habitat Is Disturbed.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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