Glossary
Albedo
The reflectivity of a surface, indicating how much solar radiation it reflects back into space.
Example:
Fresh snow has a high albedo, reflecting most sunlight and helping to keep polar regions cool, while dark ocean water has a low albedo, absorbing more heat.
Coral Bleaching
The process where corals expel their symbiotic zooxanthellae, causing them to turn white and become vulnerable to disease and death, primarily due to increased water temperature.
Example:
During a marine heatwave, vast sections of the Great Barrier Reef experienced severe coral bleaching, turning once colorful areas into stark white skeletons.
Coral Polyps
Tiny, individual invertebrate animals that make up a coral colony, resembling small sea anemones and often catching small organisms.
Example:
Each coral polyp in a reef contributes to the overall structure by secreting a calcium carbonate skeleton.
Ectotherms
Organisms that rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature, meaning their internal temperature is often close to their environment's temperature.
Example:
A lizard basking on a warm rock to raise its body temperature is a classic example of an ectotherm.
Sea-level Rise
The increase in the average global sea level, primarily caused by the thermal expansion of water and the melting of glaciers and ice sheets.
Example:
Coastal communities are increasingly concerned about sea-level rise as it threatens to inundate low-lying areas and intensify storm surges.
Symbiotic Relationship
A close and often long-term interaction between two different biological species, where at least one species benefits.
Example:
The mutualistic interaction between a clownfish and a sea anemone, where both benefit, is a well-known symbiotic relationship.
Zooxanthellae
Photosynthetic algae that live in a symbiotic relationship within the tissues of coral polyps, providing the coral with sugars and nutrients.
Example:
The vibrant colors of healthy coral reefs are largely due to the presence of zooxanthellae living within the coral tissues.