Consider the following statements regarding the formation of corals:1...
Coral formations require temperature not less than 20°C and saline water free from sediments.
Consider the following statements regarding the formation of corals:1...
Formation of Corals
Statement 1: The water temperature must be between 15 and 20°C
This statement is incorrect. Corals typically thrive in warmer waters, with an optimal temperature range of 23 to 29°C. They are adapted to tropical and subtropical regions where the water temperature is relatively high.
Statement 2: The depth of the water should not be more than 180 feet
This statement is correct. Corals are shallow-water organisms and are predominantly found in depths ranging from the water's surface to about 180 feet. They require sunlight for their photosynthetic symbiotic algae, known as zooxanthellae, to produce food.
Statement 3: The water should be fresh and should have rich sediment to provide nutrition
This statement is incorrect. Corals require clear and relatively low-nutrient waters to thrive. They have a mutualistic relationship with zooxanthellae, which provide them with food through photosynthesis. Excessive sedimentation can block sunlight and hinder the photosynthetic process, leading to coral bleaching and death.
Summary
Considering the given statements:
- Statement 1 is incorrect as corals prefer warmer water temperatures.
- Statement 2 is correct as corals are typically found in shallow waters up to 180 feet deep.
- Statement 3 is incorrect as corals require clear waters with low sedimentation.
Therefore, the correct option is 2 only.