Coral bleaching can be hazardous to some fish species because:

• A. it leads to a decrease in water temperature, making it unsuitable for fish
• B. it destroys the habitat that many fish rely on for shelter and food
• C. it causes coral to release toxins that directly kill fish
• D. it increases the oxygen concentration in the water to toxic levels

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of coral bleaching: Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues due to stress, often caused by increased water temperature or other environmental changes. This results in the coral turning white and becoming more vulnerable to death.
2. Recognize the ecological role of coral reefs: Coral reefs provide essential habitat, shelter, and food for many marine species, including fish. When corals bleach and die, the structure of the reef deteriorates, leading to the loss of habitat and resources for these species.
3. Evaluate the options provided: Analyze each statement to determine its accuracy. For example, coral bleaching does not decrease water temperature; instead, it is often caused by increased water temperature. Similarly, coral bleaching does not cause corals to release toxins or increase oxygen concentration to toxic levels.
4. Identify the correct answer: The most accurate explanation is that coral bleaching destroys the habitat that many fish rely on for shelter and food, leading to negative impacts on fish populations.
5. Connect the ecological impact: Highlight that the loss of coral reefs due to bleaching can disrupt entire marine ecosystems, affecting not only fish but also other organisms that depend on the reef for survival.