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Eutrophication is very detrimental to the development of coral since it increases ________.

1) oxygen levels
2) nutrient levels
3) temperature
4) salinity

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Eutrophication increases nutrient levels in the water, leading to negative effects on coral reefs by promoting algae growth and causing oxygen depletion as algae decompose, which is detrimental to marine life.

Step-by-step explanation:

Eutrophication is very detrimental to the development of coral since it increases nutrient levels. Eutrophication leads to the proliferation of algae and phytoplankton, which can cause anoxic conditions as these organisms die and decompose, consuming oxygen in the process. Corals are further threatened by rising temperatures and ocean acidification, the latter due to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide dissolving in ocean waters and lowering the pH. This process interferes with the ability of corals to calcify, which is essential for building their calcium carbonate skeletons.

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