All Flashcards
Cause and effect of increased ocean temperature on coral?
Cause: Increased ocean temperature. Effect: Coral bleaching and potential death of coral reefs.
Cause and effect of melting sea ice?
Cause: Rising global temperatures. Effect: Sea-level rise, habitat loss, and reduced albedo.
Cause and effect of ocean warming on marine ectotherms?
Cause: Increased ocean temperature. Effect: Metabolic stress, reduced reproduction, and potential death.
Define ectotherm.
An animal that relies on external sources of heat to regulate its body temperature.
What is coral bleaching?
The expulsion of zooxanthellae from coral tissue, causing the coral to turn white.
Define zooxanthellae.
Algae that live symbiotically within coral tissues.
What is albedo?
The measure of how much light that hits a surface is reflected without being absorbed.
Define coral polyp.
Tiny, individual animals that make up a coral colony.
What is a symbiotic relationship?
A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.
Explain the symbiotic relationship between coral and zooxanthellae.
Algae provide coral with sugar (food), and coral provides algae with shelter and nutrients.
How does ocean warming affect marine ectotherms?
It can cause metabolic stress, impairing their ability to metabolize food and reproduce.
Why are corals important?
Corals are the foundation of the coral reef ecosystem, which supports a large amount of marine life.
How does melting sea ice affect albedo?
Melting sea ice decreases albedo, causing the Earth to absorb more solar radiation and further warm.
Explain the impact of sea-level rise on coastal habitats.
Sea-level rise can inundate coastal habitats, leading to habitat loss and displacement of species.
Why is the ocean important in regulating global temperatures?
The ocean absorbs a large amount of heat, helping to regulate global temperatures. However, excess heat absorption leads to ocean warming.
What is the role of the ocean in the carbon cycle?
The ocean absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acting as a carbon sink. However, increased CO2 absorption leads to ocean acidification.
How do changes in ocean currents impact global climate?
Ocean currents distribute heat around the globe, influencing regional climates. Changes in these currents can lead to significant climate shifts.