See How Much You Know About Coral Reefs!

1.

Coral reefs cover how much of the Earth's surface?

A.

Less than 1%
B.

5%
C.

12%
D.

50%

Correct Answer
A. Less than 1%

Explanation
Coral reefs cover less than 1% of the Earth's surface. This is because coral reefs are found in relatively small areas, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. They are formed by the accumulation of coral skeletons over thousands of years. Despite their small coverage, coral reefs are incredibly important ecosystems, supporting a wide variety of marine life and providing numerous benefits to humans, such as coastal protection and tourism opportunities.

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2.

What is a major threat to coral reefs?

A.

Man-eating sharks
B.

Global climate change
C.

Pirates
D.

Asteroids

Correct Answer
B. Global climate change

Explanation
Global climate change is a major threat to coral reefs. Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events caused by climate change can lead to coral bleaching, where the coral loses its vibrant colors and becomes more susceptible to disease and death. Additionally, climate change can disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems that coral reefs rely on, further endangering their survival. Man-eating sharks, pirates, and asteroids are not significant threats to coral reefs.

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3.

True or false: Coral reefs are the largest living structure on Earth

Correct Answer
true

Explanation
Coral reefs are indeed the largest living structure on Earth. They are composed of millions of tiny coral polyps that secrete calcium carbonate, which builds up over time to form massive underwater structures. These reefs can extend for thousands of kilometers and provide habitats for a diverse range of marine life. Due to their size and complexity, coral reefs are considered one of the most important and productive ecosystems on the planet.

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4.

True or false: Coral reefs are doomed – we should give up all hope of protecting them.

Correct Answer
false

Explanation
The statement "Coral reefs are doomed – we should give up all hope of protecting them" is false. While coral reefs are facing significant threats such as climate change and human activities, it is not accurate to say that they are completely doomed. Efforts can still be made to protect and conserve coral reefs through various means such as implementing sustainable fishing practices, reducing pollution, and establishing marine protected areas. With proper conservation measures, there is hope for the survival and restoration of coral reefs.

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5.

Coral reefs have been used in the treatment of which disease?

A.

HIV
B.

Cancer
C.

Cardiovascular disease
D.

All of the above

Correct Answer
D. All of the above

Explanation
Coral reefs have been used in the treatment of HIV, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. These natural structures are rich in bioactive compounds that have shown potential in fighting against these diseases. Research has found that coral reef organisms produce substances with anti-HIV properties, such as peptides that can inhibit the virus. Additionally, coral reef compounds have demonstrated anti-cancer properties, including the ability to inhibit tumor growth. Furthermore, certain compounds found in coral reefs have shown promise in treating cardiovascular diseases by reducing inflammation and improving heart function. Therefore, all of the above diseases have been targeted for treatment using coral reef resources.

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