Scientists Observing Coral-Reef Communities Have Noted Declines in Coral Reefs

question 38

Essay

Scientists observing coral-reef communities have noted declines in coral reefs in regions that have both agricultural runoff and rising water temperatures. What are the possible reasons for these observations?

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Definitions:

Primase

A specialized enzyme that initiates the synthesis of a new DNA strand by creating a short RNA primer.

Hydrolyzing ATP

The enzymatic process of breaking down ATP (adenosine triphosphate) into ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate, releasing energy for cellular activities.

Replication Initiation

The starting point of DNA replication in cells, where the double helix is first opened.

Lagging Strand

A strand of DNA that is synthesized as a series of short segments, called Okazaki fragments, which are then covalently joined by DNA ligase. Compare with leading strand.