Question

Changing Coral Reef Quick Check
1 of 41 of 4 Items
Question
How are algae and polyps related?(1 point)
Responses

The polyps embed themselves in the flesh of the algae.
The polyps embed themselves in the flesh of the algae.

The polyps receive shelter from the algae.
The polyps receive shelter from the algae.

The polyps get most of their food from the algae.
The polyps get most of their food from the algae.

The polyps receive carbon dioxide from the algae.

Answer 1

The best response to how algae and polyps are related is:

**The polyps get most of their food from the algae.**

Coral polyps often have a symbiotic relationship with algae known as zooxanthellae. The algae live within the tissues of the polyps and perform photosynthesis, providing the polyps with essential nutrients and energy. In return, the polyps provide the algae with a protected environment and the compounds necessary for photosynthesis.