Coral reefs are a classic example of an obligate mutualistic relationship involving tiny polyps (animals) and single-celled algae (zooxanthellae). Reefs grow slowly and are susceptible to a number of...

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Title: Discussion Post
Coral Reefs
1. Reasons why coral reefs are struggling to survive:
· Metals, organic compounds, and pesticides present in industrial discharges, sunscreens, urban and agricultural runoff, mining operations, and landfill waste all have an impact on coral reproduction, development, and other physiological processes (Arifin et al.).
· Every year, the ocean absorbs almost one-quarter of the carbon dioxide released by the combustion of fossil fuels. Ocean acidification decreases the availability of dissolved salts and ions required by corals to construct the calcium carbonate framework. As a result, coral development and reef expansion are slowing, with certain species suffering more than others.
2.     Coral reefs are a critical habitat for undersea life, they protect coastal regions by lessening...