Mangroves
What happens to coastal erosion if a mangrove forest is cleared?
The loss of mangroves increases erosion and reduces coastal stability.
Why are estuaries often called the "nurseries of the sea"?
They offer protected waters with abundant food sources for young organisms.
What primary function do salt marsh grasses provide?
They stabilize sediments and reduce coastal erosion.
Why do corals require clear, shallow waters to thrive?
They rely on sunlight for photosynthesis through symbiotic algae.
Why are organisms on rocky shores well-adapted to desiccation?
They can close shells or secrete mucus to retain moisture.
Why do mangrove waters often have lower dissolved oxygen levels?
Decomposing organic material consumes oxygen.
What happens if an estuary receives excess agricultural runoff?
Decreased oxygen levels from algal blooms and decomposition.
How do salt marsh plants survive when submerged for long periods?
Their specialized roots allow them to tolerate low oxygen conditions.
What happens when corals experience prolonged stress from high temperatures?
They expel their zooxanthellae, leading to bleaching.
What happens if sea urchin populations explode in a kelp forest?
Kelp forests decline due to overgrazing.
Why do some mangrove roots grow upward instead of downward?
To absorb oxygen in low-oxygen (anoxic) soils.
Why do estuaries experience varying salinity levels?
They receive both freshwater and saltwater input.
How do salt marshes remain resilient to sea level rise?
They trap sediment and build elevation over time.
What is a likely consequence of overfishing near a coral reef?
The food web becomes unbalanced, allowing algae to overgrow.
How do kelp forests support marine life?
They provide shelter and food for many species.
How do mangrove ecosystems benefit juvenile fish?
They provide shelter and a nutrient-rich habitat for growth.
What happens if a river feeding an estuary dries up?
Salinity levels increase, affecting freshwater-dependent species.
What happens if a road is built through a salt marsh?
It can block water flow, leading to changes in salinity and reduced habitat quality.
How do coral reefs protect coastal communities?
They act as natural barriers against storm surges.
How do sea otters help maintain kelp forest ecosystems?
They control sea urchin populations, preventing overgrazing.
How do mangroves help combat climate change?
They absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis and store carbon in sediments.
How do estuaries protect coastal communities?
They filter pollutants, buffer storm surges, and stabilize coastlines.
What is a major consequence of salt marsh disappearance due to coastal development?
Water quality would decrease due to loss of natural filtration.
What would best help a coral reef recover from bleaching?
Reducing pollution and restoring fish populations.
What would happen to a kelp forest if water temperatures increased significantly?
The kelp would die off, leading to habitat loss.