Which of the following sets of locations in India is known for having significant coral reef ecosystems?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar, Lakshadweep, and Andaman & Nicobar islands.
These regions provide the warm, shallow, and clear saline waters necessary for coral growth. Lakshadweep features atolls, while the others primarily have fringing reefs, supporting massive marine biodiversity.
Other Options:
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Bay of Bengal coast and deltas: High freshwater inflow and heavy siltation from rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra inhibit coral polyps from surviving.
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East coast of India near major river mouths: Similar to deltas, the turbidity and low salinity caused by river discharge prevent coral reef formation.
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Deep-sea trenches in the Indian Ocean: Corals require sunlight for their symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae); the extreme darkness and pressure of deep trenches make reef building impossible.