Question

a developer proposes to drain an estuary, and then use the land to build an ocean - side hotel, houses, and parking lots. which would be the most likely effect of the new development on the local ecosystem? a. loss of spawning and nursery grounds for many fishes and shellfish b. death of coral animals and loss of the coral reef ecosystem c. reduction of primary productivity for the ocean ecosystem d. increased salinity of ocean water

Explanation:

An estuary is a crucial spawning and nursery ground for many fish and shellfish. Draining an estuary for development would remove these habitats, directly impacting the species that rely on it for reproduction and early - life growth. Option B is about coral reefs, which are not related to estuaries. Option C: Primary productivity reduction in the ocean ecosystem is a more indirect and less immediate effect compared to the loss of spawning/nursery grounds. Option D: Estuaries typically have a mix of fresh and salt water, and draining an estuary would likely change salinity, but the loss of spawning/nursery grounds is a more significant and direct ecological impact on the local ecosystem related to the estuary's role.

Answer:

A. loss of spawning and nursery grounds for many fishes and shellfish