morganrechtien
reefs
This photo was taken March 9, 2017 on my GoPro while my friend Emily (the one in the photo) and I were snorkeling in Nassau over spring break. Coral reefs form a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae. It is specifically mutualistic since the coral reefs provide a protective environment for zooxanthellae that live within the tissues of the coral. In return, the zooxanthellae photosynthesize and provide food for the coral polyps. Both recycle nutrients in nutrient-deficient tropical water allowing an important factor for growth and productivity in coral reefs. Zooxanthellae are also responsible for the unique, colorful appearance of the reefs. Without the zooxanthellae, the coral turns white. It is referred to as coral bleaching and occurs when the corals are physically stressed and expel the algae.
reefs
This photo was taken March 9, 2017 on my GoPro while my friend Emily (the one in the photo) and I were snorkeling in Nassau over spring break. Coral reefs form a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae. It is specifically mutualistic since the coral reefs provide a protective environment for zooxanthellae that live within the tissues of the coral. In return, the zooxanthellae photosynthesize and provide food for the coral polyps. Both recycle nutrients in nutrient-deficient tropical water allowing an important factor for growth and productivity in coral reefs. Zooxanthellae are also responsible for the unique, colorful appearance of the reefs. Without the zooxanthellae, the coral turns white. It is referred to as coral bleaching and occurs when the corals are physically stressed and expel the algae.