Final answer:
The evolution of corals has been significantly affected by sea level changes, temperature fluctuations, and ocean acidity, which impact their growth, structure, and survival. Human-related impacts like pollution and overfishing have also contributed to the stress on coral reef ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The geoscience factors that have affected the evolution of corals include sea level changes, temperature fluctuations, and ocean acidity. These factors have played a significant role in shaping coral development and distribution. Sea level changes can expose corals to different conditions, affecting their growth and survival.
Temperature fluctuations can stress coral ecosystems, leading to coral bleaching, where corals lose their symbiotic algae and become vulnerable. Increased ocean acidity, primarily due to rising atmospheric CO₂ levels, affects the ability of corals to form their skeletons, a process known as calcification, which is vital for coral structure and survival.
Moreover, factors like human population growth, runoff of sediment and agricultural chemicals, and overfishing have also caused negative impacts on coral reefs. This increased stress on coral reefs has resulted in the decline of marine populations that depend on this biome, and may lead to irreversible damage to coral reef ecosystems globally.