[Campbell Biology P.103] Based on the information provided in the 'Scientific Skills Exercis... | Practice Question

Based on the information provided in the 'Scientific Skills Exercise', how would an increase in atmospheric CO2 likely affect the growth of coral reefs?

  • A: It would increase the calcification rate, leading to faster coral growth, as CO2 is a nutrient for corals.
  • B: It would have no significant effect on coral growth, as corals can adapt to varying CO2 levels.
  • C: It would decrease the concentration of dissolved carbonate ions, leading to a reduced calcification rate and thus slower coral growth.
  • D: It would primarily affect the coloration of corals but have little impact on their structural growth.

Explanation

The text states that higher levels of atmospheric CO2 lead to lower concentrations of dissolved carbonate ions. The graph shows a positive correlation between carbonate ion concentration and calcification rate. Therefore, a decrease in carbonate ions due to increased CO2 would lead to a reduced calcification rate, slowing coral reef growth.