Symbiosis in Corals--the role of zooxanthellae



Rationale/Objectives/Purpose:
To offer students a better understanding of symbiotic relationships, and the opportunity to learn about the conditions in which corals grow best.
Time Required:
  • 1 class period (40 to 50 minutes)
Safety Issues:
None
Materials:
  • 1 coloring sheet of zooxanthellae--front side and back
  • crayons, markers or colored pencils
  • books, articles, or internet access

Procedures:
  1. Asks students to color the picture of the zooxanthellae
  2. research the role zooxanthellae play in coral reefs
  3. Students should answer the questions on the back of the coloring sheet using information they find in their research.
Assessment:
Check your students understanding by using these answers:
  1. Zooxanthellae have a mutually benficial relationship with corals. Their specific role is to provide food from light.
  2. Zooxanthellae produce carbohydrates and oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. The corals make use of both of them.
  3. Plantlike, because they have chloroplasts and a cell wall/Animal-like because they have mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell.
  4. 68 to 82 degrees F or 20 to 28 degrees C
  5. Clean, clear water that allows light to penetrate
  6. Generally good because gentle waves bring in nutrients and oxygen to the area, and flush away any wastes.
Extensions:
Use this site as a source for research and discussion on how the demise of the Everglades affects the key barrier reefs
Article
Internet Links:
Check out our links page.
Background:
Students should be familiar with the basic parts of a cell

Key Words:
mutualism, polyps, medusa