Adaptations in a Coral Reef

 

 

Background: Coral reefs are diverse habitats. Corals are actually composed of tiny organisms called polyps, which secrete calcium carbonate for protection. These corals harvest vast amounts of life, from sea worms and sponges to reef sharks and beautiful fish. These organisms have adapted to the coral environment through time so that they can survive. Now, many of the organisms are dependent upon the resources of the coral reefs. These resources include food and protection.

 

Purpose: In this activity, students will investigate the different adaptations of a variety of organisms that live and depend upon the coral reefs.

 

Materials:

-Cards of different coral fish

-Name labels of the fish

 

Procedure:

 

1)     Study all eight pictures of the different fish. Match the name cards with the fish…make educated guesses.

2)     Call the instructor to see if you have them properly matched before you move onto step 3.

3)     After examining them, discuss among your partners the various features of the organisms.

4)     Lastly, discuss the features on the organisms that would help them survive in the coral reef environment. These features are their adaptations.

5)     Record the data in the Table A below.

 

Data: Table A: Fish and their Adaptations

 

Name of Fish	Latin Name of Fish	Description of the Fish	Adaptations of the Fish and a brief description of why you think they have the adaptation

 

Conclusions:

Follow the conclusion prompt. Here are some questions to think about: Which adaptations were the easiest/hardest to see? Why is it necessary for these fish to adapt to their environment?

 

Extension: Answer in complete sentences in your lab report.

 

1) Do you think it is better to adapt to capture food or to adapt to protect yourself? Why?