Coral reefs occur on the southeast coast of the United States, near Florida, but not at similar latitudes on the southwest coast near Los Angeles. Differences in which of the following most likely account for this?
A) air temperatures driven by precipitation
B) day length
C) water temperatures driven by ocean currents
D) marine salinity differences

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coral reefs thrive in warm, clear, shallow waters, and the presence of coral reefs off the southeast coast of the United States (near Florida) but not near Los Angeles can be attributed to differences in water temperatures. These temperature differences are primarily driven by ocean currents, with the warm Gulf Stream influencing the waters near Florida, promoting coral growth, whereas the cooler California Current affects the southwest coast, making the environment less suitable for coral reefs.

Coral Reefs Occur on the Southeast Coast of the United