Corals Affect Their Communities by Producing Elaborate Limestone Skeletons (Coral

question 7

Multiple Choice

Corals affect their communities by producing elaborate limestone skeletons (coral reefs) that provide habitat for thousands of species and by helping to concentrate resources on the reef.Sea otters affect their communities by acting as top predators that generate trophic cascades, helping to maintain species richness, abundance, and composition.Are these animals considered keystone species or foundation species?

• A) Both are keystone species.
• B) Both are foundation species.
• C) Corals are a keystone species; sea otters are a foundation species.
• D) Corals are a foundation species; sea otters are a keystone species.
• E) Both may fit either category, depending on the specific community.

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Definitions:

Analysis Result

The outcome or conclusions derived from systematically examining and interpreting data.

Probability

A measure of the likelihood that an event will occur.

Research Hypothesis

A statement made by a researcher predicting a possible outcome or association between two or more variables in a study, often tested against the null hypothesis.

Binge Drinking

The consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period, typically defined as five or more drinks for men and four or more for women within about two hours.