Using Internet Research: Describe The Relationship Between C

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Using Internet Research Describe The Relationship Between Corals And Using internet research, describe the relationship between corals and their photosynthetic symbionts. Describe the mechanics behind this symbiosis in 6-8 sentences. How is energy transferred from one organism to another? What services/benefits do corals provide for their symbionts? What services/benefits do the algae provide the corals? Give two more examples of symbiotic relationships that involve photosynthesis. Provide in text citations from at least two sources (does not include Wikipedia) and provide proper APA citations for each source at the end of the post.

Dr. Jack HW Helper · Accepted Answer

The symbiotic relationship between corals and their photosynthetic symbionts, primarily dinoflagellates belonging to the genus Symbiodinium, is a quintessential example of mutualism in marine ecosystems. These symbionts reside within the coral’s tissues, enabling a highly efficient energy transfer system that sustains the coral reef's productivity. The dinoflagellates utilize sunlight to perform photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide and nutrients into oxygen and glucose, which they share with the coral host—thus transferring energy in the form of organic compounds (Falkowski et al., 1984). In return, corals provide their symbionts with a protected environment and the compounds necessary for photosynthesis, such as carbon dioxide and waste nutrients, creating an ideal microhabitat (Muscatine & Porter, 1977). This exchange enhances the calcification process of corals, aiding the growth and maintenance of coral reef structures. The symbiosis also plays a crucial role in primary productivity within reef ecosystems, making corals the foundation of these biodiverse habitats (Yellowlees et al., 2008). When environmental stressors like increased sea temperatures occur, this relationship can break down, leading to coral bleaching, where corals lose their symbionts—highlighting its delicate balance (Baker et al., 2008). Aside from corals, other examples of symbiotic relationships involving photosynthesis include the relationship between lichens and algae, where fungi provide structure and protection to photosynthetic algae, which in turn produce nutrients through photosynthesis (Higgins & Clausen, 2010). Another example is the mutualism between terrestrial ants and certain plants, such as Acacia species, where ants feed on plant-derived nectar and in return defend the plant from herbivores and competing plants—an indirect but significant relationship involving the energy derived from photosynthesis in the plants (Gordon, 2008). References Baker, A. C., Glynn, P. W

Using Internet Research Describe The Relationship Between Corals And

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