D. the loss of zooxanthellae, which give coral their bright colors
Mass coral bleaching events occur when corals expel the algae zooxanthellae that live inside their tissues, which provide the corals with their vibrant colors. This process can occur due to environmental stressors such as increased water temperatures or pollution.
The Florida reef tract has experienced six mass coral bleaching events. Which of the following BEST explains mass coral bleaching events?
A. the loss of zooxanthellae, organs that give off light
B. the loss of photophores, organs that give off light
C. the loss of photophores, which give coral their bright colors
D. the loss of zooxanthellae, which give coral their bright colors
1 answer