Chapter 7: Problem 14

How are coral reefs and mangroves being threatened, and how is this destruction linked to other environmental problems?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Coral reefs are mainly threatened by climate change, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices while mangroves are at risk due to urban development, deforestation, and pollution. The destruction of these ecosystems exacerbates other environmental problems such as biodiversity loss, increased carbon dioxide levels and heightened coastline erosion.

Step by step solution

Understanding Coral Reefs and Mangroves

Coral reefs and mangroves are vital components of marine ecosystems. Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems characterized by reef-building corals, while mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow in saline coastal habitats in the tropics.

Identifying the Threats to Coral Reefs and Mangroves

Coral reefs are primarily threatened by climate change, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices. Mangroves, on the other hand, are being threatened by urban development, deforestation for timber and shrimp farming, and pollution.

Linking the Destruction to other Environmental Problems

The destruction of coral reefs and mangroves contributes to many other environmental problems. For instance, loss of coral reefs affects marine biodiversity and disrupts food chains. It can also lead to increased coastline erosion due to loss of wave buffer. As for mangroves, their destruction results in carbon dioxide release contributing to global warming, and loss of habitat for many species, among other issues.

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How are coral reefs and mangroves being threatened, and how is this destruction linked to other environmental problems?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Coral Reefs and Mangroves

Identifying the Threats to Coral Reefs and Mangroves

Linking the Destruction to other Environmental Problems

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