Coral reefs are limited to areas

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coral reefs are limited to areas of shallow water because they require sunlight for the photosynthesis of the zooxanthellae (a photosynthetic alga that lives within coral) which is essential for the growth of corals. Corals are typically found in shallow, clear, warm water where sunlight can penetrate to the bottom. Upwelling, river outflows, and high latitudes are not typically associated with the conditions needed for coral growth.

Coral Reefs Are Limited to Areas