Researchers studying coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean found that areas with sea grass meadows nearby showed significantly healthier coral populations. The sea grass acts as a natural filter, removing excess nutrients and sediments from the water before it reaches the coral. Reefs without adjacent sea grass showed higher rates of disease and bleaching.
It can be inferred from the text that
coral reefs cannot survive without sea grass
water quality affects coral reef health
all Pacific coral reefs are surrounded by sea grass
sea grass causes coral disease
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The passage connects filtered water to healthier coral.
- Context clues: Sea grass "removes excess nutrients and sediments," and areas with it have healthier coral.
- Meaning: Cleaner water correlates with better coral health.
- Verify: The contrast between areas with and without sea grass shows water quality matters.
💡 Strategy: When a passage compares conditions with different outcomes, infer what the difference affects.
Choice A is incorrect because coral "can" survive without sea grass, just with more problems. Choice C is incorrect because the passage compares areas with and without sea grass. Choice D is incorrect because sea grass helps coral by filtering water.