Chapter 6: Problem 11

How do a coral polyp and its resident zooxanthellae help each other?

Short Answer

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The symbiotic relationship between coral polyps and zooxanthellae is mutualistic, with both organisms benefiting from each other's presence. Coral polyps receive energy-rich compounds and building materials from the photosynthetic zooxanthellae, while the zooxanthellae receive protection and essential nutrients from the coral. This relationship is vital for the survival, growth, and overall health of both organisms and coral reef ecosystems.

Step by step solution

1. Introduction to Coral polyps and Zooxanthellae

Coral polyps are small, soft-bodied organisms that make up the structure of coral reefs. Zooxanthellae are microscopic algae that live within the coral polyps' tissues. Together, they form a mutualistic symbiotic relationship, which means both organisms benefit from each other's presence.

2. Benefits to Coral Polyps

Coral polyps benefit from the presence of zooxanthellae in a few ways: a) Energy Source: Since zooxanthellae are photosynthetic organisms, they convert sunlight into energy-rich compounds through the process of photosynthesis. They share a portion of these compounds with their host coral, providing them with an essential energy source. b) Building Material: The energy-rich compounds shared by the zooxanthellae also aid the coral polyps in producing calcium carbonate, which is the main component of their hard exoskeletons. This process is known as calcification and allows corals to grow and form reefs.

3. Benefits to Zooxanthellae

Zooxanthellae also benefit from their relationship with coral polyps: a) Protection: Living within the tissue of the coral polyps provides zooxanthellae with a safe and protected environment, shielding them from predators. b) Nutrient Supply: Coral polyps provide zooxanthellae with essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which are the byproducts of their own metabolic processes. These nutrients help the algae to grow and reproduce.

4. The Mutualistic Relationship

In conclusion, the relationship between coral polyps and their resident zooxanthellae is an example of mutualistic symbiosis. The coral polyps benefit from the energy-rich compounds and building materials produced by the photosynthesis of zooxanthellae, while the algae benefit from the protection and essential nutrients provided by their host. This interconnected relationship is a significant factor in the survival and growth of both organisms, as well as the overall health of coral reef ecosystems.

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How do a coral polyp and its resident zooxanthellae help each other?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Introduction to Coral polyps and Zooxanthellae

2. Benefits to Coral Polyps

3. Benefits to Zooxanthellae

4. The Mutualistic Relationship

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