Reading Section (20 questions)
Passage 1: The Economic Importance of Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are often called the "rainforests of the sea" due to their remarkable
biodiversity. These ecosystems provide habitat for
...
Reading Section (20 questions)
Passage 1: The Economic Importance of Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are often called the "rainforests of the sea" due to their remarkable
biodiversity. These ecosystems provide habitat for approximately 25% of all marine
species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. Beyond their ecological
significance, coral reefs deliver substantial economic benefits to coastal communities
worldwide.
The economic value of coral reefs derives primarily from three sources: fisheries,
tourism, and coastal protection. Fisheries dependent on coral reefs support millions of
fishers and provide protein to coastal populations. Tourism associated with healthy reefs
generates billions of dollars annually through diving, snorkeling, and recreational
fishing. Additionally, reefs function as natural barriers, reducing wave energy by up to
97% and protecting shorelines from erosion and storm damage. A 2014 study estimated
that reefs protect more than 200 million people from coastal hazards.
However, these valuable ecosystems face unprecedented threats. Climate change
induced ocean warming causes coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the
symbiotic algae living in their tissues. Ocean acidification, also resulting from increased
atmospheric carbon dioxide, reduces the availability of calcium carbonate needed for
coral skeleton formation. Local threats including overfishing, pollution, and coastal
development compound these global stressors.
Conservation efforts increasingly recognize the need to address both local and global
threats. Marine protected areas have shown promise in restoring fish populations and
improving reef resilience. Simultaneously, reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains
essential for addressing the root causes of climate change. The economic arguments for
reef conservation are compelling: the cost of restoring degraded reefs far exceeds the
investment required for protection.
1. The word "remarkable" in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to:
A. ordinary
B. extraordinary
C. limited
D. predictable
Answer: B. extraordinary
Rationale: "Remarkable" means worthy of attention or striking. In context, the biodiversity
of coral reefs is being emphasized as exceptional, making "extraordinary" the closest
synonym. "Ordinary" is an antonym, while "limited" and "predictable" do not match the
positive emphasis of the passage.
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