What are nematocysts?

Corals are formed by multiple small, soft organisms known as polyps. They secrete a rocky chalk-like (calcium carbonate) exoskeleton around themselves for ... Over the last three decades, the world has lost half of its reefs. The combination of destructive fishing practices, polluted water entering the ocean, coastal ... Mar 17, 2023 ... When corals are exposed to stressful conditions, such as high temperatures, pollution, or changes in the water's chemistry, they expel the zooxanthellae. Without the algae, corals become bleached and can die. Reef ecosystems around the world depend on healthy corals. Without them, the entire reef ecosystem ... Coral reefs are therefore created by millions of tiny polyps forming large carbonate structures, and are the basis of a framework and home for hundreds of ... Corals can survive a bleaching event if waters cool down and other sources of nutrition are available, but they are under more stress and ultimately susceptible ... What is coral bleaching? Bleaching is a sign corals are under stress. Hard corals are the builders of coral reefs. They are made up of colonies of tiny ... Jan 2, 2024 ... This bite-sized video explains why coral bleaching is happening and what it means for reefs and other marine life ... Coral bleaching occurs when ... Coral, plant or animal? For several centuries, the nature of this strange organism, resembling small flowering trees attached to rocks at the bottom of the sea, ... Oct 14, 2022 ... Coral bleaching is much more than an aesthetic loss. It is an environmental indicator: an omen of starving animals, a failing ocean ecosystem and a devastating ...