Explanations –

Statement 1 is incorrect. Sea Surface Temperature (SST) refers to the temperature of the ocean’s surface, not the ocean floor. SST is typically measured in the uppermost layer of the ocean, within the top 20 meters.

Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Higher SST can lead to coral bleaching. When water temperatures rise above normal levels, corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues, causing them to turn white. This stress response, known as coral bleaching, often results from prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures. SST is higher in equatorial regions compared to polar regions. This is because equatorial regions receive more direct sunlight throughout the year, leading to warmer surface waters, whereas polar regions receive less sunlight and are colder.

Source: The Hindu