Choose the correct option to fill up the blanks: _____________ nourish the host coral as well as help it deposit its skeleton. They perform…
Choose the correct option to fill up the blanks:_____________ nourish the host coral as well as help it deposit its skeleton. They perform _____________ and pass on some of the _____________ they make to the coral.
Select an option to attempt
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation
Zooxanthellae: symbiotic relationship with coral:Zooxanthellae are symbiotic dinoflagellate algae (Symbiodinium spp.) that live within the endodermal cells of reef-building (hermatypic/scleractinian) corals:Relationship:• Zooxanthellae perform PHOTOSYNTHESIS within coral tissues.• They transfer 90–95% of their photosynthetically fixed carbon (sugars, glycerol, amino acids) to the coral host as ORGANIC MATTER.• This organic matter provides the majority of the coral's energy (up to 95% of energy needs).• This energy powers:- Coral metabolism- Calcium carbonate skeleton deposition ()Corol bleaching:• Thermal stress causes corals to expel zooxanthellae → loss of colour and energy source → coral bleaching and eventual death.Corals provide CO₂ and nitrogenous wastes to the zooxanthellae (mutualistic symbiosis).Answer: Zooxanthellae perform photosynthesis and pass organic matter (photosynthates) to the coral, nourishing it and fuelling calcium carbonate skeleton deposition.