In 2005, bleaching of coral reefs in the Caribbean killed half of the reefs.The National Ocean Service measured their temperature stress at 20 times higher than that of the previous 20 years combined.Also, many fewer coral larvae are settling in areas with higher-than-normal ocean acidity.From this information, what can be inferred about the effects on coral reefs of increased atmospheric CO₂? A) It has little effect in oceans; the only major effect is on land. B) It has a minor effect; some CO₂ enters the ocean and raises temperatures. C) It causes only temperature effects, as air temperatures cause the ocean to warm. D) It causes only acidity effects, as it dissolves in the water and forms acid. E) It causes both temperature and acidity effects; air temperature warms the ocean and dissolved CO₂ increases acidity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The information provided suggests that increased atmospheric CO2 causes both temperature and acidity effects on coral reefs. The bleaching event in the Caribbean in 2005 was caused by high ocean temperatures, which were likely influenced by increased atmospheric CO2. Additionally, higher-than-normal ocean acidity is affecting the settlement of coral larvae. This suggests that dissolved CO2 is increasing the acidity of the ocean, which can have negative impacts on coral reefs.

In 2005, Bleaching of Coral Reefs in the Caribbean Killed