Marine Science 2001: Coral Reefs Lecture

These flashcards cover key concepts from the Marine Science 2001 lecture on coral reefs, including their ecology, monitoring techniques, and the role of different marine organisms.

What is the main topic discussed in the Marine Science 2001 lecture?

The ecology and monitoring of coral reefs.

How much of the world's oceans do coral reefs cover?

Coral reefs cover only 1% of the world's oceans.

What percent of marine species depend on coral reefs?

25% of all marine species depend on coral reefs.

How fast do massive corals generally grow per year?

Massive corals grow approximately 0.5 cm per year.

What is the growth rate of branching corals per year?

Branching corals grow around 12 cm per year.

What significant ecological role do coral reefs play for the world's coastlines?

Coral reefs form a natural barrier for 1/6 of the world's coastlines.

What happens to coral reefs when the sea level rises too quickly?

The reefs cannot grow upwards fast enough, threatening island habitats.

What are corals primarily classified as?

Corals are animals that host symbiotic algae.

What is ocean acidification's effect on corals?

It weakens the calcium carbonate skeleton of corals.

What does a phase shift in coral reefs refer to?

A transition from a coral-dominant reef to an algae-dominant reef.

Name one key way to monitor coral health.

Using photogrammetry to create 3D models of coral growth.

What is the traditional spawning time for corals in the Southern Great Barrier Reef?

Two days after the second full moon in November.

What is remote sensing used for in marine science?

It is used to map and monitor coral reefs from above.

How does kelp contribute to water quality?

Kelp absorbs excess nitrogen from sewage or farming runoff.

How quickly can kelp grow per day?

Kelp can grow up to 60 cm per day.

Why are kelps important for marine ecosystems?

Kelp provides habitat structure and shoreline protection.

What is the significance of citizen science in coral reef monitoring?

Citizen scientists help to gather important data on coral health and distribution.

What is the primary challenge when distinguishing coral from algae in remote sensing?

Both have similar reflective spectral signatures.

Which coral species are considered the most endangered?

Many coral species are classified as endangered due to environmental stressors.

What critical role do fish play in the health of coral reefs?

Fish graze on turf algae, which helps maintain space for coral to settle.