What role does a marine protected area (MPA) play in coral preservation?

A marine protected area (MPA) plays a crucial role in the preservation of coral ecosystems by providing a designated space where human activities are regulated or restricted. This protection helps to mitigate the negative impacts of activities such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction, which can greatly harm coral reefs.

In an MPA, restrictions on fishing practices help maintain balanced fish populations, which, in turn, supports coral health. These areas often have limits on destructive practices like bottom trawling or the use of harmful chemicals, allowing corals and associated marine life to thrive. Furthermore, MPAs can serve as refuges for many species, allowing ecosystems to recover and regenerate over time.

This protection is essential since coral reefs are particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors, and the establishment of MPAs is a proactive measure to ensure the survival of these vital ecosystems. In contrast, options that suggest unrestricted fishing or the introduction of invasive species would lead to degradation of coral habitats, while enhancing growth through artificial means does not address the need for natural habitat preservation.