Why are coral reefs limited to shallow water?
A)They require the lower salinity found in shallow waters.
B)There are more nutrients found in shallow water.
C)Their symbiotic zooxanthellae require light to survive.
D)They require coastal upwellings in order to survive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coral reefs are limited to shallow waters primarily because their symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, need sunlight to perform photosynthesis. This process is crucial for the survival of both the coral and the algae, as it provides essential nutrients to the coral.

Why Are Coral Reefs Limited to Shallow Water