Q. Which one of the following is the primary factor that leads to ‘coral bleaching’ by disrupting the symbiotic relationship between corals and their algae, ultimately causing the expulsion of algae and bleaching of coral reefs?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation – Corals live in a symbiotic relationship with tiny algae known as zooxanthellae, which provide them with color and food through photosynthesis. When sea surface temperatures rise, the heat stress causes the breakdown of this relationship. The corals expel the algae, leading to a loss of color (bleaching) and depriving the corals of their primary source of nutrients.
Source: The Hindu
