Consider the following statements with reference to the relationship b...
Introduction:
The relationship between corals and zooxanthellae is a well-known example of mutualism. Zooxanthellae are photosynthetic algae that live within the tissues of coral polyps. This symbiotic relationship is crucial for the survival and growth of both the coral and zooxanthellae.
Statements:
1. The zooxanthellae are fast-growing plants, whereas corals are slow-growing colonies of animals.
2. The coral and zooxanthellae share a symbiotic relationship.
Explanation:
1. The zooxanthellae are fast-growing plants:
- Zooxanthellae are a type of dinoflagellate algae that possess chlorophyll and other pigments, allowing them to carry out photosynthesis.
- They can rapidly reproduce through cell division, leading to their fast growth under optimal conditions.
- The photosynthesis carried out by zooxanthellae is a significant source of energy for both the coral and themselves.
2. Corals are slow-growing colonies of animals:
- Corals are marine invertebrates that form colonies of polyps, which are individual animals.
- The growth rate of corals is relatively slow, with new polyps forming and adding to the colony over time.
- Corals mainly rely on their symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae to obtain nutrients and energy, which contributes to their slow growth.
Conclusion:
Both statements are correct:
- Statement 1 highlights the fast growth of zooxanthellae due to their ability to carry out photosynthesis, while corals are slow-growing animals that rely on the energy produced by zooxanthellae.
- Statement 2 emphasizes the mutualistic relationship between corals and zooxanthellae, where the corals provide shelter and nutrients to the zooxanthellae, while the zooxanthellae provide energy through photosynthesis to the corals. This symbiotic relationship is crucial for the survival and growth of both organisms.
Consider the following statements with reference to the relationship b...
Most reef-building corals contain photosynthetic algae, called zooxanthellae, that live in their tissues. The coral provides the algae with a protected environment and compounds they need for photosynthesis. In return, the algae produce oxygen and help the coral to remove wastes. Most importantly, zooxanthellae supply the coral with glucose, glycerol, and amino acids, which are the products of photosynthesis. The coral uses these products to make proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, and produce calcium carbonate.
- This symbiotic relationship, called a mutualism, benefits both the corals and the algae. Hence statement 2 is correct.
- Because of their intimate relationship with zooxanthellae, reef-building corals respond to the environment like plants. But the zooxanthellae are fast growing plants where as corals are slow growing colonies of animals. Hence statement 1 is correct.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.