Chapter 6, Problem 11STP

Summary Introduction

To write:

The region of the world which would be optimal for coral growth.

Introduction:

A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem characterized by reef-building corals. Reefs are formed of colonies of coral polyps held together by calcium carbonate. Most coral reefs are formed from stony corals, whose polyps cluster in groups. Coral reefs grow best in warm water (70−85° F or 21−29° C). 

Explanation of Solution

Corals do not make their own food. Corals are animals. They are actually made up of thousands of tiny animals called polyps. The optimal region for coral growth is tropical. Coral reef temperatures in the wild range from 68 to 97°F (20 to 36°C). Deep-sea corals are capable of living in temperatures as low as 30.2°F (-1°C). Corals prefer clear and shallow water, where lots of sunlight filters through to their symbiotic algae. It is possible to find corals at depths of up to 300 feet, but reef-building corals develop poorly below 60−90 feet.

Conclusion

So, tropical region would be optimal for coral growth. Corals grow in shallow water where sunlight can reach them.