The cycle of coral reef formation involves:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cycle of coral reef formation begins with bioerosion, where marine organisms such as parrotfish, sea urchins, and sponges break down rocks and other substrates, creating space for coral larvae to settle. The larvae then attach and start to grow, forming polyps which bud to form corallites. As more corallites grow, they join together to form colonies, and the solidification of rubble by encrusting coralline algae helps provide a stable base. Ultimately, this process results in the formation of a coral reef. Thus, options A and B are steps in the coral reef formation process, while option C is a complementary process that helps stabilize the coral reef. Therefore, the best answer is D, a followed by c.

The Cycle of Coral Reef Formation Involves