Page 93 - Ai V2.0 Flipbook C7
P. 93
What is Coral Bleaching?
Coral bleaching occurs when coral reefs experience significant stress due to factors such as
temperature rise or pollution. Here’s how it happens:
• Corals have a symbiotic relationship with algae. These tiny algae live inside coral tissues and
provide essential nutrients to the coral in exchange for a protected environment.
• When water temperatures rise or pollution increases, the algae become stressed and expel
themselves from the coral. Without the algae, the corals lose their vibrant colour and turn
white.
• This process, called coral bleaching, weakens the corals, making them more susceptible to
diseases and sometimes leading to their death. Bleached corals can survive for a short time
but are under extreme stress, which affects the overall health of the reef and the marine life
that depends on it.
21 st Century #Media Literacy
Skills
Video Session
Watch the video of “Coral Reefs 101 | National Geographic“ at the given link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiULxLLP32s OR scan the QR code and
answer the following questions:
1. What is coral bleaching, and what causes it?
2. How can individuals contribute to the preservation of coral reefs?
Introduction to Systems Thinking and System Map 91

