Populations of Caribbean Coral Have Decreased Significantly Over the Past

Multiple Choice

Populations of Caribbean coral have decreased significantly over the past 30 years due to disease. Which of the following is most likely a major factor leading to the increased amount of disease in the coral?

A) Symbiotic algae are living in the coral cells.
B) Several different species of fish live on the coral reefs.
C) Levels of spawning have decreased and lowered reproductive rates.
D) Water temperatures have increased and favored the growth of microorganisms.